If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), you might be feeling uncertain about your diagnosis and what comes next. The good news is that you're not alone, and with the right support and information, you can manage your COPD and live a fulfilling life.
That is where this blog comes into play. Below, we will walk you through the essentials of COPD, from understanding your symptoms to creating a long-term care plan with your doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP).
What is COPD
COPD is a chronic lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. It is often caused by long-term exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke, but other factors like air pollution or chemical fumes can also contribute. This exposure damages the lungs, leading to inflammation and blocked airflow. According to the American Lung Association, smoking is the leading cause of COPD, but exposure to secondhand smoke or air pollutants can also raise your risk.
Millions of Americans are living with COPD, and many more—the "missing millions"—have it without even knowing. Recognizing the symptoms is the first step toward getting the care you need.
Signs and symptoms
If you notice any of these common symptoms, you should schedule an appointment to talk to your doctor or APP.
- A persistent cough that may produce mucus
- Shortness of breath, especially during everyday activities
- Wheezing, which is a whistling sound when you breathe
- Tightness in your chest, a sensation of pressure or discomfort in the chest, especially during exacerbations.
- Fatigue or a noticeable decrease in your energy levels
While there is no cure for COPD, early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in managing and treating it.
Diagnosing COPD
If you or your doctor or APP suspects you might have COPD, they will likely perform a simple lung test called spirometry. This test measures how much air your lungs can hold and how quickly you can move air in and out.
Your doctor or APP might also recommend other tests, like X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans, to get a clearer picture of your lung health and track your condition over time.
Creating your personalized treatment plan
Once diagnosed, your doctor or APP will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. Since COPD affects everyone differently, this plan will be tailored to your specific symptoms and lifestyle.
A key part of your treatment plan will be regular visits with your care team. These check-ins allow your doctor or APP to monitor your lung function, adjust your medications, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes and answer any questions you may have.
Your treatment plan may also include:
- Medications: Bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids are common prescriptions that help relax your airways and reduce inflammation to make breathing easier.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation: This is a structured program that combines exercise training, health education, and breathing techniques to improve your lung function and overall well-being.
- Oxygen therapy: If your blood oxygen levels are low, your doctor may recommend supplemental oxygen to reduce breathlessness and improve your stamina.
- Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps you can take. Regular exercise and a healthy diet also play a key role in managing COPD.
- Vaccinations: It's important to get your annual flu shot and pneumonia vaccine to protect your lungs from infections.
Taking control of your health
Managing a chronic condition like COPD happens mostly outside of your doctor’s office. That's why patient education is so important. When you understand your condition, you feel more comfortable participating in decisions about your care and are better equipped to manage your health day-to-day.
To help you on this journey, Village Medical has partnered with the COPD Foundation to create a COPD Patient Folder. This folder is a comprehensive resource filled with tips and information to help you breathe better. It includes:
- An explanation of what COPD is
- A COPD Action Plan to manage flare-ups
- Information on medications and pulmonary rehabilitation
- Tips for staying healthy and quitting smoking
For information on being a caregiver to someone with COPD, download our COPD Caregiver Packet.
You are not alone
Living with COPD can be challenging, but your doctor or APP is your long-term partner in health. They can help you understand your diagnosis, coordinate care with specialists like pulmonologists, and provide the emotional support you need.
By working with your care team and taking an active role in your treatment, you can successfully manage your COPD and live a fulfilling life.
*An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.