Did You Know...

Whether you have COPD, or know someone who does, these 25 facts can open your eyes to the vast world of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

25 Tips & Factoids About COPD

1. A lung doctor is called a pulmonologist.
2. The #1 cause of COPD is smoking.
3. Not everyone who has COPD smoked. It is also caused by chemicals, pollution, dust, second hand smoke and more.
4. There is a genetic form of COPD called Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) which is a rare genetic condition.

5. If you take Spiriva, you can often tell if there some in the capsule if you hold it up to the light.
6. When someone says have a BED, they are telling you to have a Breathe Easy Day.
7. BEN is telling you to have a Breathe Easy Night.
8. When someone says they are SOB, they are telling you they are short of breath.
9. To keep your oxygen tubing warm when outside in the cold, put the tubing inside your coat.
10. It's natural to feel self-conscious wearing oxygen for the first time, but it will fade. It's similar to wearing glasses as an adult.
11. You can get oxygen therapy glasses, that are worn in place of a nasal cannula (try Googling it!).
12. Pets, like dogs, cats, and even birds, with their fur and feather dander can affect COPD.
13. Inhaling diacetyl, the chemical found in microwave popcorn flavoring, can negatively affect the lungs.
14. Oxygen therapy is a treatment and needs a prescription, just like any other medication.
15. With supplemental oxygen, if the 2 prongs seem too long when they are placed in your nose, you can cut them shorter with a scissors. Do not cut too much off though, if they are too short they won’t fit into your nose and deliver oxygen like they should.
16. Not everyone who is stage 4 needs oxygen.
17. COPD can also be categorized as an invisible illness.
18. When your COPD symptoms suddenly get worse, it often means that you are having an exacerbation.
19. You may have to go to your doctor for treatment and medication. You may need a chest x-ray of your lungs, as well.
20. While it's most important that you don't smoke, it's also important not to be around smoke (such as a spouse who still smokes).
21. There is a lot of information that you can share with your spouse or other family members.
22. It can be beneficial to invite a friend or spouse to go to your next doctor appointment with you - they might get a better understanding of your life with COPD.
23. No two people are alike, nor do they share the same medical history. Take people's comments with a grain of salt - only you and your doctor know what's best for you
24. You and your doctor should have an emergency action plan set up, so you will know what to do if you get sick or your symptoms get worse.
25. Those 2 steps forward and 3 steps back are called a cha-cha. :)