Now What? 6 Steps to Breathing Better with COPD

In my last blog we talked about COPD- what it is, if you could be at risk, and how to find out if you have it. So, let's say that you have, indeed, been diagnosed with COPD and are among the estimated 12 million other folks who have. Before we go on from here, you must know that you're already a step ahead of the others who have COPD and don't even know it! So, okay, you have it. If you need to, take a little time to go off by yourself and lick your wounds, maybe even throw a little pity party for yourself. That's okay - and normal. But whatever you do, make that pity party brief. Don't let it go on and on. You owe it to yourself and those around you to pick yourself up and take what I call "First Steps." (adapted from my website, breathingbetterlivingwell.com)

 

Step 1.) Don't Give Up!

The first thing is: DON'T GIVE UP! You are certainly not alone! Your best weapons to fight this disease are education, exercise, support, and a positive attitude. You can live a long time with COPD.

 

Step 2.) Find The Right Physician

People with COPD must have the right physician.

Ask yourself:

• Does my doctor listen carefully to me, my symptoms, and family history before giving an opinion or diagnosis?
• Does my doctor encourage me to take an active role in the management of my health? Is he or she willing to be my partner in helping me breathe better and live as well as possible?
• Does my doctor tell me about my lung function numbers, trusting that I can understand the basic information?
• Does my doctor know about the latest in approved treatments, procedures, and breathing medications and their side effects - and if he or she doesn't, is he or she willing to refer me to someone who does?
• Does my doctor recognize the value of pulmonary rehabilitation for the treatment of lung disease?
• Does he or she realize that there is more to pulmonary disease management than sitting at home because "it is only going to get worse?"

If you answered "yes" to these questions, you have a keeper! If you answered "no" to any of them, consider looking further. Remember, you're the customer and you hire your doctor. Of course, you must do your part in complying with what your doctor tells you to do. The best doctor in the world cannot help you if you don't keep appointments, follow instructions,

and take medicines as directed.

 

Step 3.) Get into a Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program

Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a program of exercise and education especially designed for people with COPD. In pulmonary rehab you'll gain strength, stamina, and flexibility and learn a lot about your lungs and how to stay as healthy as possible. You'll learn about proper breathing techniques, pacing, conserving precious energy, proper nutrition, relaxation, effective use of medications, and more....You'll also find new friends, plenty of support, and have fun! If your doctor or the respiratory staff at your local hospital doesn't know where the nearest Pulmonary Rehab program is located, contact the AACVPR (American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation) by visiting the AACVPR website.