COPD Glossary

For those that have dealt with COPD for a while, we are quite familiar with the common terminology used. For patients that are newly diagnosed, these words can be quite foreign and overwhelming. I have compiled a list of the most commonly used terms to keep bookmarked or printed out. They are in alphabetical order.

COPD - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. A chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. The most common are Chronic Bronchitis and Emphysema.

Common COPD terms

Here is a list of good-to-know COPD terms:^1-3

Acapella or Aerobika Devices - These are small devices that help break up mucus. By exhaling into the mouthpiece, it causes the device to vibrate. This loosens the mucus from the walls of the lungs, making it easier to cough up.

BiPap Machine - Known as Positive Pressure Ventilation. This machine helps push pressurized air into the lungs, opening them up with air pressure. A mask is worn that is connected to the ventilator. It also helps in exhaling carbon dioxide. In most cases, your doctor will prescribe a sleep study to discover if you need this.

Exacerbation - Also referred to as flare-ups. Symptoms worsen and may require hospitalization. Many doctors provide an emergency pack to keep on hand for this, such as antibiotics and/or steroids. This is something to talk to your doctor about.

Inhaler - A small, portable device for delivering medicine to be breathed in, typically by one or two breaths.

Nebulizer - A device that produces a fine spray of liquid medicine to be inhaled directly into the lungs.

Oxygen Therapy - Also known as supplemental oxygen. Prescribed when the body’s oxygen needs are not being met on their own.

Oxygen Concentrator - A medical device for delivering oxygen. They can be larger, stationary units or portable. They filter the surrounding air, compressing it to medical-grade oxygen. Most of the portable concentrators use a pulse delivery system instead of a continuous one. It is important to know if this will provide enough oxygen for your needs. Pulse is based on your breath rate and continuous is a constant flow.

Pulmonary Function Test - You may also see this referred to as PFT. This is a test that shows how well your lungs are functioning. It measures lung volume and capacity, flow rates, and gas exchange. It is non-invasive and done by inhaling and exhaling in different ways as instructed. You may also be asked to complete a six-minute walk test. This is done by walking at your normal pace for six minutes. Oxygen level, heart rate, and blood pressure will be checked during the test, and oxygen will be available if needed.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation - Designed for patients with lung diseases, this is a supervised program that includes education, physical training, and breathing techniques. It is prescribed by your doctor and typically lasts anywhere from 12 to 21 weeks. It is held at a hospital or clinic type setting with physical and respiratory therapists, overseen by a medical doctor.

Pulse Oximeter - A small device that slips over your finger and uses infrared light refraction to measure oxygen saturation. It is a good idea that everyone with COPD owns one and understands the readings. They can be purchased at most pharmacies.

Pursed Lip Breathing - This type of breathing reduces the trapped air in the lungs and will usually increase oxygen levels. This type of breathing causes a positive pressure in the airways and keeps them open longer while breathing out. This allows more air out of the lungs and fresh air in. It is done by breathing in through your nose with your mouth closed to the count of two or four. Purse your lips and breath out slowly as if blowing on hot food to the count of four or eight. Repeat until you have control of your breathing.

While there are many more terms for COPD, I felt these are the most commonly used. Can you think of other terms that may be helpful to the community?

What helps you manage your COPD? Do you rely solely on your doctor for information or look elsewhere? Do you believe attitude makes a difference in living life with this disease? Are you a Is That All There Is type person or Let's Keep Dancing Person? I would love to hear your thoughts!

Editor's Note: We are heartbroken to share that Carol passed away in February of 2022. Carol's storytelling and advocacy will be deeply missed, but her legacy lives on through her articles and in all the people she inspired.