John Bottrell, RRT

Editor's note: Always consult your doctor before starting any medication or if you have any questions. As an asthma expert, I'm well aware that many asthmatics grapple with nasal issues...

We often discuss the importance of asking your doctor questions. Inquiring with your doctor not only aids in acquiring knowledge and addressing concerns but also fosters a collaborative healthcare journey...

You've heard of firsthand smoke. You know about secondhand smoke. But do you know about thirdhand smoke? Let's talk about what it is and why it matters to those with...

While I was growing up, severe asthma was my constant companion. When I became a respiratory therapist, I expected to connect with short-of-breath patients, assuming they'd be like me—fellow asthmatics...

In our community, the need for ventilator support is a shared reality. Among our conversations, terms like "ventilator," "Trilogy," "AVAPS," "BiPAP," and "CPAP" frequently surface. These terms hold diverse meanings...

Imagine this scenario: you are in a store, wearing a mask to stay safe. Suddenly, you start coughing, sneezing, and wheezing. The need to catch your breath forces a pause...

As a dedicated respiratory therapist, a significant part of my role involves caring for inpatients, including those managing COPD. While my primary focus is on inpatient care, working in a...

I've always found a unique connection with my COPD patients, thanks to my own battle with severe asthma. It fosters some enlightening conversations. The interesting aspect of asthma is its...

I have observed that an increased number of my COPD patients have been getting CAT scans. I have also noticed commercials on TV that echo the message: "If you have...

In the realm of home oxygen therapy, optimal health demands a proactive approach. As someone deeply involved in the qualification process for home oxygen at our hospital, I've realized the...

The question I'm often asked is, “Why did you become a respiratory therapist?” There's no simple answer, but the pivotal point that set me on this path was my childhood...

As we enter the new year, it's an opportune moment to reflect on our lives and well-being. This year, I encourage everyone to make positive changes and improve their well-being...

I work in a hospital and engage in daily conversations with COPD patients. Additionally, as an active member of this community, I make it a point to listen attentively to...

As winter approaches, the chill and snow become part of the landscape. It's an opportune moment to discuss effective strategies for navigating the cold weather when you have COPD. If...

I will be honest with you. When someone is diagnosed with a disease, it's not easy for me to come up with the right words to say to them. Choosing...

Have you ever felt like you can't catch your breath, even when you're not running? This is what it's like for people living with COPD. COPD is an invisible lung...

At least once a week, I check my sources for anything new regarding chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Sometimes, this doesn't amount to much. But sometimes, such as this morning...

Chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD) is often described as a disease that progresses over time. The good news is that this progression can be slowed – sometimes significantly – which...

There are some basic questions that everyone with COPD should know the answers to. Questions like "What is COPD?" and "What are the best treatment options?" I want to talk...

So, you’ve had that appointment. The one you were told you have a diagnosis of COPD. You’ve had time to ponder it, perhaps enough to accept and study it. Now...