When it comes to managing your COPD, you have more power -- and more responsibility -- than anyone else. Blacks are at higher risk of developing COPD and lung cancer. That's why most lung rehabilitation programs put a strong emphasis on education. Experts will help you set goals and show you how to achieve them.
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How to manage COPD
One piece of advice can't get repeated enough: Quitting smoking now and forever is the best thing you can do for your lungs. You should also avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible.
A study published in BioMed Central Pulmonary Medicine found that exposure to secondhand smoke significantly worsened cases of COPD. You should also avoid chemical fumes and polluted air.
Taking your medicine as directed is also critically important. Missed doses can hamper your breathing and give your disease a chance to gain ground. If you have any doubts or concerns about your treatment, talk to your doctor.
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Work with your doctor
Your doctor will probably encourage you to start an exercise program. Working out may be tiring and difficult at first, but don't give up. Increasing your strength and stamina can go a long way toward increasing your quality of life.
You can also learn breathing exercises that will help you get through the day without putting too much strain on your lungs.
For example, many people use muscles in the rib cage, neck and abdomen to breathe, rather than using the diaphragm, which is much more efficient. You can practice using your diaphragm by lying on your back, placing a hand on your stomach, and breathing so that your hand rises and falls as you inhale and exhale. Your doctor can show you other exercises as well.
You'll need to stay in close contact with your doctor from here on out. Have an appointment at least once every six months, even if you're feeling OK. These appointments give your doctor a chance to track your condition and adjust your treatments.
Paying close attention to your symptoms should be a top priority. If you have frequent exacerbations of COPD in which your symptoms worsen, your doctor may want to change your treatments. Here are some common signs of exacerbation that you may want to discuss with your doctor:
- You start coughing up more mucus (sputum) than usual
- The mucus becomes thicker
- The mucus contains blood or changes from colorless or yellow to green
- You suddenly notice more coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Your energy level drops noticeably
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Give your lungs a break
Give your lungs a break by pacing yourself throughout the day and finding ways to lessen your workload. For example, you may be able to do some chores sitting down. Better yet, ask someone else for help.
Eat Healthy
A healthy diet is especially important for people with COPD. Shortness of breath can make eating difficult. Eating small meals more frequently can sometimes help.
Try to get plenty of fruits and vegetables along with high-protein foods such as milk, fish, eggs, meat, and soy. Drinking plenty of water can help, too.
Water may help thin mucus and phlegm so that it's easier to expel by coughing. If you can't seem to eat enough calories, liquid supplements like Ensure or Resource may help.
It takes a lot of effort to manage COPD. But if COPD gets severe, everything will take a lot of effort. It's better to take care of yourself now and breathe easy later.
