Living With COPD

Living with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is challenging but is certainly not something that should get in the way of everyday life. 

Learning to deal with physical and emotional challenges takes time, but by learning to manage your COPD, you can enhance the quality of your life. Here are a few tips and tools to help you manage your COPD and find the necessary support.

Managing Your Copd

The sooner you create a management plan for your COPD, the sooner you can get back to your routine. Learning about your medication, nutrition and exercise programs, and other healthcare needs will help you manage your COPD. Here’s what you can do:

• Protect Your Lungs — COPD weakens your lungs. You need to avoid exposure to any irritants that could worsen or exacerbate your COPD. Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke, steer clear of poor air quality, and not expose yourself to dust or fumes. You also should make sure you do your best to avoid any infections by washing your hands regularly, getting vaccinated, and avoiding large crowds and anyone sick.

• Make a Plan — After being diagnosed with COPD, you and your doctor will develop a management plan that works best for you. Once your plan is in place, you will clearly understand how and when to take medications, why and when to call your doc, and when you should seek emergency medical attention. This plan will also help you track how you feel, any questions or concerns you have, and any noticeable health changes.

• Medications — Your doctor may prescribe you medications to treat your COPD. There is no one-size-fits-all medication when it comes to COPD. You and your doctor will work together to prescribe the best “cocktail” of medicines for you.

• Learn to Breathe Better — Living with COPD can leave you feeling breathless, but you can better your breathing with a couple of exercises. If you’re active, you might be interested in choosing a portable oxygen concentrator. For those who would like to practice oxygen therapy at home, stationary concentrators work well too. 

Finding Support

A COPD diagnosis is a major moment in one’s life, and getting the support to deal with the mental, emotional, and physical changes you will experience is very important. Here’s what you can do:

• Be Aware — Anxiety and depression are common among those with COPD. If you are already at risk of these or start to experience anxiety or depression, talk to your doctor immediately. Doing so will not only help increase your mood but will help you stick with your COPD management plan.

• Take Care of Yourself — Support yourself by taking care of yourself. Make sure you stay active, eat well, and do the things you love with people you love. Make time for yourself. Manage your stress levels by relaxing or participating in hobbies you enjoy.

• Keep Communication Open — Talk to your doctor, talk to your family and friends, or connect with others living with COPD. You are not in this alone and should let others help carry your load. Your doctor can help you find support groups or a counselor.

Choose O2 Assist for Your Oxygen Treatments

If you have any questions or concerns about living with COPD, be sure to contact your health care provider today. If your doctor suggests at-home oxygen treatments, you may qualify for an oxygen concentrator. At O2 Assist, oxygen concentrators are all we do! Shop online to learn more about your options and our excellent customer service. If you would like to speak with someone, do not hesitate to reach out! We’ll be happy to serve you. 

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