What To Expect in The Emergency RoomI am a respiratory therapist. I am involved in the care of people with COPD, especially if you come to the emergency...reactionscomments
Heart Failure: Learning the Signs and SymptomsIt has been established that anywhere from 20-70% of people diagnosed with COPD will eventually develop heart failure. It doesn't always happen...reactionscomments
On Death and Dying: Part 1I have COPD, which is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Under the COPD heading are emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and alpha-one deficiency. This subject may...reactionscomments
COPD and COVID-19Since late 2019, COVID-19 has become a household name. It has changed many aspects of daily life. Especially for those living with...reactions2comments
Remembering WhenAs I stepped out the back door and onto the deck, the heat and humidity seemed to wrap around me. I couldn’t...reactions5comments
What Do Respiratory Medicines Taste Like? Many of us in this community have nebulizers and inhalers. These devices allow us to inhale respiratory medications. So, what do the...reactions12comments
What You Should Know About Augmentation TherapyI am often asked if there is any difference in the treatment of patients who have COPD vs COPD caused by Alpha...reactions2comments
My Lungs Are Doing a Flip-Flop: Part 2You can read part one of this story here. The change in medications is making a positive difference! It's important to talk...reactions4comments
My Lungs Are Doing a Flip-Flop: Part 1Can you walk the length of a football field? That’s getting to be a regular question from my pulmonologist. I’m sure he’s...reactionscomments
COPD and New HobbiesWhen mom was frustrated with feeling cooped up, she used hobbies to keep happy with her COPD. Some were expensive and involved...reactions12comments
DIY Cleaners for COPD: Mom’s RecipesMama was a hoot. Memories of her always make me smile. When we decided to make DIY cleaners for COPD, mom’s recipes...reactions11comments
Social Media Groups and FriendsIf there is one positive thing that having Alpha 1 (genetic COPD) has done for me, I would say that it is...reactions2comments
Wearing Oxygen for the First TimeOver these past eleven years, I have had many first times with my oxygen. Here are some I'd like to share. In...reactions78comments
A Different Kind of Thermostat: Part 1I gasped for air as I stepped out the back door and onto the deck. The sweat began to pour off of...reactions13comments
Get More Active To Lessen the Impact of Heart DiseaseThere is a well-known link between COPD and various types of heart disease. You may or may not be able to avoid...reactions5comments
An Action Plan Is Hope for the FutureI came across this quote the other day by Ady Barkan, a health care activist talking about his battle with ALS. “Hope...reactions7comments
Feeling Overwhelmed With Doctor AppointmentsIs anyone feeling overwhelmed with doctor appointments? I sure am! Between missing yearly appointments the last few years from COVID and my...reactions15comments
Blood Tests Your Doctor May Order and What They MeanDoctors often order blood tests which requires that you have your blood drawn. The information obtained from your blood can be helpful...reactions15comments
Are You A Human Barometer?Are you a human thermostat and/or barometer? If you say yes, you aren’t alone. You have probably heard how people with arthritis or...reactions3comments
Overnight Sleep StudyWhen it comes to sleeping, those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) often have trouble getting a good night's rest. People who...reactions6comments