COPD, or Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a lung disease which makes difficulty in breathing and may worsen over time. Given below are a few tips that can make a significant difference in helping you cope better with COPD.
COPD, or Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a lung disease that is progressive, which means it worsens over time. The condition can cause symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, tightening of the chest, and shortness of breath.
Sometimes, the symptoms caused by COPD such as difficulty in breathing can limit your ability to perform the simplest of activities like cooking or walking. However, you don’t necessarily have to be completely powerless if you have COPD. It is possible to manage symptoms of COPD proactively, slowing the progress of the condition and improving your quality of life.
Tips for to cope with and live well with COPD.
1. Getting vaccinated:
COPD exacerbations or flares are known to be commonly caused by the flu and cold. You need to be proactive in protecting yourself by getting the flu vaccine yearly. Getting a standard shot of a vaccine is better than nasal spray vaccines. Apart from the flu vaccine, you should also get vaccinated for pneumonia at least once before turning 65 years old, along with a couple of booster doses after the age of 65.
2. Avoiding germs:
If you have COPD, you need to do what you can to stay away from sick people. Try avoiding crowds as much as you can during the cold and flu season. Your goal should be avoiding germs to reduce the chances of falling sick. Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face too much.
3. Giving up smoking:
When it comes to COPD, the most significant risk factor is smoking. You should avoid e-cigarettes as well since they have ingredients that might not be safe. You can take the help of smoking cessation aids like patches and nicotine gum to quit smoking.
4. Maintaining cleaner air quality:
Symptoms of COPD such as breathlessness can be triggered because of poor air quality. The air inside your house or workplace can at times be even more polluted than outdoor air. Use HEPA filter indoors to maintain good air. Such filters can remove around 99% of air pollutants indoors. Other tips to improve air quality in your home is to get rid of wall-to-wall carpets and using natural cleaners or green products like water and soap, vinegar, and baking soda for cleaning.
5. Maintaining your fitness:
If you have COPD, you should not be underweight or obese. If you are obese, your lungs and heart need to work harder for supplying oxygen to your body. Being underweight means your body doesn’t get sufficient nutrients to provide the energy for performing everyday tasks. You can maintain a healthy weight by exercising regularly and consuming a balanced diet. Doing so improves the circulation of blood and aids in the more efficient use of oxygen by your body. You can consult with your doctor if you are unsure if you have a healthy weight or not. The doctor will also guide you on how to maintain fitness with COPD.
