Living

What is COPD? COPD is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease which is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. That’s something...

So, I’m new in the world of COPD. I have spent most of my life living a naïve belief that I was somehow safe from the harsh realities the rest...

I have now been a respiratory therapist for 20 years. A lot has changed. But, one thing unchanged is the down-home sort of feeling of the hospital I work at...

When I get up in the morning, off comes the oxygen and CPAP. I check the time, then off the bathroom and I wash up. It’s now medication time, pills...

Have you ever heard the joke: Well, probably you have since that's one of the oldest jokes in existence. It dawned on me earlier this year that this joke was...

I think COPD action/management plans are a neat idea for all COPDers. They help you manage your COPD on a daily basis. They help you decide what to do when...

The approach to treatment of COPD will vary to some extent, based on what stage of COPD you are currently at. In this post, we'll discuss some tips for people...

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...

We all know that our inhaled corticosteroid inhalers come with their fair share of potential side effects. While not everyone gets the side effects, some seem to be plagued with...

Your doctor may use a lot of specific terms or jargon when referring to COPD or other lung diseases. By using these terms they are not trying to confuse you...

I needed a scooter to get around the store the other day, but when one became available I gave it to another person. Why? Why would I do that when...

For some COPDers, shopping is a thing of the past. For others, they still enjoy shopping. Which are you? I know that others have said the same. Because of this...

Being diagnosed with COPD can feel scary and lonely, but you don’t have to manage your diagnosis alone. The American Lung Association's Living with COPD Inspire network allows you to...

This article took a lot of thought. I have other health issues aside from COPD, and one compounds the other. Sometimes it’s difficult to tell what’s causing what. My husband...

Those four words I’m hearing more and more. It doesn’t matter whether the COPDer is Stage 1 or Stage 4,  so many struggle with tiredness and exhaustion, confusion, depression, pain, body...

It's so easy to put off seeking help. Still, the earlier you seek help the better. As a friend or loved one, you may be in a position to help...

Sleigh bells ring, are you listening In the lane, snow is glistening A beautiful sight, we're happy tonight Walking in a winter wonderland Screeeeech, as I imagine the needle of...

Shortness of breath was noted in ancient documents. In the year 2,697, it was described by Nei Ching Su Wen in his book, “Classics on Internal Medicine.” This was long...

This one is primarily for friends, family, and the general public. You know that we COPD patients can't breathe. We say we're tired all the time. We talk about having...

No I’m not being silly. Many would say having COPD means that they are sick. Others think of COPD as having a peg leg, or like dragging an anvil around...