Five Things to Ask Your Doctor About at Your Next Appointment

By American Lung Association

1 min read

While we know that those with COPD can live normal, healthy lives, proper management for the disease is important to maintaining the life you want. This includes having open and honest conversations with your doctor. Here are few topics to bring up during your next appointment:

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program

Pulmonary Rehabilitation programs can be beneficial to those living with COPD. These group classes teach participants about their lungs through a variety of programs and exercises. Not only will patients strengthen their breathing muscles and learn efficient breathing techniques, they will also get the chance to connect with others living with COPD. Ask your doctor about where to find a class and how to get signed up.

Vaccinations

Respiratory diseases, such as a pneumonia or the flu, can be very serious to those living with COPD, and vaccinations can help you stay healthy. Talk to your doctor about what vaccines you should get and how often. And, ask about tips to avoid colds and other diseases, such as routinely washing your hands and avoiding large crowds.

COPD Progression

Ask your doctor about what worsening COPD feels and looks like. Talk to them about specifics strategies you can implement if you are having an exacerbation, which could help prevent hospitalization. Bring this COPD Management Plan to the doctor’s office so you know what to do based on the symptoms you are having.

Medications

Medications are sometimes necessary to manage COPD, but only if they are used correctly. If your doctor has prescribed you an inhaler or nebulizer, show your doctor how you are using them, even if you have had them for a long time. It’s always best to ensure that you using these devices correctly so you will get the most from them.

Other Management Tips

There are a lot of other things you can do to manage your COPD, such as getting regular exercise, maintain a healthy diet, and joining a support group. Talk to your doctor about what you can do to ensure a good quality of life while living with COPD.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The COPD.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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davoe Member
Iv been diagnosed with copd im65yrs old ,I am on day 6 of quitting cigs ,since iv stopped the cigarettes i have had the worse hacking cough ,dr told me it was.a good thing that my lungs are clearing ,i know thats a good thing but it really knnocks the wind out of me ,ends up being like a panick attack almost leaves me wanting a cigarette to calm myself down ,how long will this go on for ??ive heard a month iv heard a year i just dont know anymore.cigarettes are my only vice I just dont know if it is worth stopping at my age .thank you
1. Barbara Moore Moderator
 Hi Davoe, No one can say how long or with what intensity. You need to take care of yourself right now, your body is going through a transformation. Be kind to yourself as when you come out the other side of this you will be a new person. It will a freedom that you have not experienced in a long time. You will no longer be a slave to a pack of smokes and a lighter. Take Care, Barbara Moore (site Moderator)
luvmylife1948 Member
It is always worth it giving up cigarettes and living a healthier life no matter what age you are. You could have a better quality of life. But I think I know what you mean. When one reaches this age they enjoy food or cigs or even a drink as a way of enjoyment of their later years. I usually put it this way. " I want to die happy" some people do feel miserable having to make lifestyle changes later in life. Something to think about?
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 It sure is luvmylife1948 and we appreciate you providing this perspective. It's really a personal decision - what is most important to us as we get older. After all, it's our life - our decision. It's certainly one way of looking at it. Wishing you the best, Leon (site moderator)
2. Barbara Moore Moderator
 Hi luvmylife1948, Everyone has an outlook or perspective on life. As long as you are happy with you perspective on life than you should be happy. But remember, everything in moderation Barbara Moore (Site Moderator)