By getting ahead of your symptoms and talking about them with your healthcare provider regularly, you can put yourself on the path to a better quality of life.
Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do to prevent more damage to your lungs. Ask your provider about new options for quitting. Many resources to help are available online.
Avoid Pollutants: Try to stay away from things that could irritate your lungs, like dust and strong fumes. Stay indoors when the outside air quality is poor, and avoid places where there might be cigarette smoke.
Visit Your Provider: COPD is treatable. Talk to your healthcare provider regularly; follow treatment by taking your medications; and get your flu, pneumococcal, and COVID-19 vaccines as recommended.
Get Support: Caregivers, friends, and family provide an important support network that can help you stay on track with your treatment and identify symptoms. Listen to them, talk with them. They can mean the difference in a successful treatment.