Learning To Breathe Easy With COPD

Understanding COPD Treatment Options 

If you have COPD, a big part of managing the condition is learning what your treatment options are and what works for you. Treatment plans are often individualized, and not all treatment works for everyone. In some cases, finding an effective way to manage COPD may take a little trial and error.

Your doctor may have prescribed a fast-acting rescue medication for quick relief of symptoms, such as wheezing and shortness of breath. You may also have been prescribed maintenance medication, such as steroid inhalers, which are usually taken daily to prevent symptoms. It is important you understand why you are taking different types of medication and how it helps.

Make sure you let your doctor know about other medications you are taking. If your doctor has a complete list of everything you are taking, it will prevent unwanted interactions between medications. After you start taking your COPD medication, discuss side effects and whether the medication is controlling symptoms with your doctor.  

Learning proper breathing techniques is also helpful to cope with shortness of breath. When you are short of breath, there are breathing techniques you can use, which may help you catch your breath and relax. Pursed lip breathing is an excellent tool to reduce shortness of breath. Breathe in through your nose and exhale slowly through pursed lips. Your exhalation should take twice as long as your inhalation. This technique slows down breathing and helps you get trapped air out of your lungs, which commonly occurs with COPD.

Some people with COPD also attend pulmonary rehabilitation classes and find it helpful in managing their condition. 

Classes usually involve instruction on lifestyle changes, nutrition, smoking cessation and other ways to manage COPD. A supervised exercise program is also usually part of a pulmonary rehabilitation class. Classes are often offered through hospitals and may be covered by insurance. Ask your doctor for more information.

Lifestyle Changes to Treat COPD

Managing COPD may mean making some lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms and prevent the condition from becoming worse. For example, smoking is the number one risk factor for developing COPD. If you still smoke, it is time to seriously consider quitting. Continuing to smoke will further damage your lungs and make COPD worse.

In addition, make sure you do what you can to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes getting enough rest, eating healthy and exercising as tolerated.  Working hard to breath can take a lot of energy and lead to fatigue. Getting enough sleep, along with proper nutrition and exercise can improve your energy levels.

Even if you are doing your best to manage COPD, know when to seek help. Although you are often able to manage symptoms at home, there may be instances when you need to seek immediate help. 

See Also: Is There A Natural "Cure" For COPD?

If you are using your rescue medication more often than normal, have increased mucus or develop flu-like symptoms, call your doctor as soon as possible.

Lastly, don’t let COPD rule your life. Having COPD does not mean you have to stop living your life to the fullest. It is easy to get depressed when you have a chronic disease, especially if you need to alter your lifestyle. But change can also be a positive thing, and finding ways to live healthier is always a plus. By following your doctor’s advice and learning how to manage symptoms at home, you can still enjoy an active life.