Living with COPD

COPD requires proper treatment and management. To keep it under control and manage it effectively, you need to follow your doctor’s advice thoroughly.

The symptoms may not entirely go away, however, with proper treatment and lifestyle changes you can continue living your life to the fullest.

• Active lifestyle

Activities such as walking or yoga can help strengthen your respiratory system, which basically means you can breathe better.

There are no specific dietary restrictions for controlling COPD, however, it is important to follow a wholesome diet for your overall health. Moreover, with a healthy diet and regular exercise, there’s no reason for COPD to cause you more trouble.

• Pulmonary rehabilitation program

it’s a formal program where a team of specialists  help you build your fitness and breathe as well as you possibly can.  The specialists -- ranging from dietitians to social workers guide you on managing your problem, by providing counselling teaching breathing exercises help in quitting smoking, using the inhaler and other medications correctly and eating a healthy diet.

• Be prepared

Ensure that you always have emergency contact information in a place where you can access it. It might even be prudent to stick a copy of your emergency numbers, medicines and doses in a place you frequent regularly – like the refrigerator, and your phone.

If breathing becomes difficult, go to your doctor or to a hospital immediately, as it could be an emergency.  

It can be a relief to talk to others who understand – join the Breathefree community and talk to thousands of people who have conquered their breathing problems.