Living

The day was a tough one. I was so tired. Something triggered my asthma. COPD could be a culprit too. My osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia both had me in pain. I...

I'm going to Birmingham, Alabama, for an Alpha-1 lung study. Ever since I was diagnosed with Alpha-1, I have tried to do everything I can to help find a cure...

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...

After my first serious exacerbation, I was too weak to walk across the room. I was devastated and scared. A very serious case of pneumonia had almost put me in my grave. ...

Rare Disease Day is always held on the last day of February, which is usually February 28th, but this year is Leap year, so it will be held on the...

COPD is a progressive chronic illness that starts slowly over a long period of time. Most of us are aware of the symptoms but we're not sure what these symptoms...

It's been over 13 years since I was first diagnosed with COPD. I wasn't just diagnosed with COPD that day, but also with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1). Alpha-1 is a...

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...

Many people who have COPD have a hard time during the cold winter months. COPD is a lung disease that gets worse over time and causes coughing, trouble breathing, and...

I don’t need a dating app myself as I have been happily married to my husband, Dave, for over 30 years, and together many more. I see so many of...

Over the years, COPDers have asked if it's possible to have a relationship while having COPD. Actually, that's a question asked by people who suffer from all types of chronic...

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...

If you have read part 1, you have read what can happen to your bowels or bladder when fighting for a breath of air. What I didn't share in that...

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...

During the darkest and coldest time of the year, keeping a positive attitude and finding daily gratitude can be more challenging. COPD restricts me, so choosing hobbies and activities can...

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...

Editors Note: The experiences shared in this article are those of the author. Please consult your doctor if you feel that you need personalized medical advice. I have noticed in...

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...

We are profoundly heartbroken to share with the community that Patient Leader Barbara Moore passed away on January 7, 2024 at the age of 68. Barbara was diagnosed with COPD...

I'm sure the list is long with all the things that we can not do or that are too hard for us to do because of our COPD. My family...