Living with COPD can be challenging. But there are lots of things you can do to help stay in control of your health. Simply understanding what COPD is can help make a difference in how effectively you manage your condition. That's why it's so important to work closely with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for you.
Things to watch for
COPD can cause you to become short of breath from just doing the basics—taking a shower, getting dressed, or other normal daily activities. COPD is progressive, and being out of breath can limit your physical activity. Be sure to keep your healthcare provider informed so your treatment plan can be adjusted accordingly.
You also have to stay alert to potential complications. If you have COPD and come down with a cold, the flu, or fever, it's important to be particularly careful. Lung infections can mean big trouble for someone with COPD.
Managing COPD with exercise, diet, and medication
Once you’re diagnosed with COPD, there are a number of treatment options available to you, including medications, breathing exercises, and lifestyle changes that can help you breathe better.
The best lifestyle change to make is to quit smoking; you’ll start to feel the difference almost immediately, and long term, the rate of decline in your lung function can slow dramatically.
Pulmonary rehabilitation may also be part of the treatment plan for people living with COPD. Your healthcare provider may assign specific cardiovascular and breathing exercises to help you breathe better. A healthier diet and a regular exercise plan can also improve your overall cardiovascular health.