How I Adjusted to CPAPFor years, as a respiratory therapist, I have worked with patients who use CPAP at night for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), COPD, or both. I would often ask them, "How...reactions10comments
COPD Moments That Can Be Avoided and How to Prevent ThemA gallant is a person living with COPD who does everything right. While we all aspire to be gallant COPD patients, most of us have our goofus moments. Let's explore...reactions9comments
Don’t Fall for These COPD Myths: Here’s the TruthAs a respiratory therapist, I encounter many COPD myths. These misconceptions can mislead patients and even delay proper treatment. Let's tackle some of the most persistent ones. Maybe even a...reactions21comments
Staying on Track with Medication RoutinesI wanted to check in with everyone about their medication routines. I've noticed that forgetting to take medication is a common issue in our COPD and Alpha-1 communities. I've been...reactions3comments
COPD: What You Don’t See and How to HelpCOPD is a condition that can be hard for others to understand, especially those who don’t live with it. Unlike a broken leg or other visible injury, COPD is a...reactions18comments
Creating COPD-Friendly GatheringsThis year, I set to embark on my first major holiday season without my mom. Her battle with COPD did limit her ability to socialize, and holidays were hard for...reactions1comment
COPD Risks in ChildhoodChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease defined by trouble moving air in and out of the airways. This trouble can be caused by lung tissue damage or...reactions26comments
2025 Resolve To Have Better Communication With Your COPD Care TeamGone are the days when your family doctor would magically appear at your bedside for a check-up if you were hospitalized. The face of health care has changed from house...reactions7comments
The Cost of Over-Giving as a CaregiverAccording to the Apostle Paul, Jesus believed that It is better to give than to receive. However, the concept of over-giving as a caregiver is a topic near and dear...reactions1comment
Tilt-a-Whirl of Home, Hospital, and RehabThere is a revolving door that often starts slow until the frequent hospitalizations become dizzying. It may start with a fall, which leads to increased bed rest and muscle atrophy...reactionscomments
Here's How I Deal With Insurance Coverage ChallengesInsurance companies have evolved significantly over the years. But many of these changes, in my opinion, seem to focus more on cutting costs and increasing profits than on ensuring patients...reactions7comments
Winter Self-Care With COPDAs the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, focusing on winter self-care is essential. The cold weather can be harsh on our bodies and minds, making establishing routines that...reactions2comments
Planning for the HolidaysThis year, I’m looking forward to the holidays. What’s ahead? I don’t know, and I’ve learned not to plan too far ahead. It can be difficult to plan around me...reactions1comment
The Race that is Set Before UsWhat started as an attempt to cultivate some self-care on a balmy Saturday in my new home state of Florida turned into a deep reflection of how we measure progress...reactionscomments
COPD and Runny NosesDo you have sinus problems or a runny nose along with COPD? The symptoms might seem unrelated. But over time, inflammation can damage the cilia in your nose and cause...reactions8comments
Exercise is Your FriendAfter enduring years of debilitating COPD, Jeff faced a life-changing moment: a double lung transplant. Determined to regain his strength, he adopted a focused exercise routine that has played a...reactions4comments
Managing Holiday Stress With COPDManaging holiday stress can be challenging for anyone, but when you have COPD, the extra demands can make the season feel overwhelming. The pressure to prepare, travel, cook, and entertain...reactions11comments
8 Tips to Help People Understand Your COPDMany people in this community have shared how challenging it is to gain sympathy and understanding from those in their lives who don't have COPD. Some people simply don’t grasp...reactions3comments
Heart disease and COPD: TestingI had been having chest pain on and off for a few weeks. I was familiar with the shortness of breath and other challenges that come with COPD. However, this...reactions4comments
Lessons Learned From COPD PatientsLiving with a condition like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is challenging and far from enjoyable. Many are diagnosed only after years of leading a normal life, making acceptance and...reactions5comments
