Myths and Facts About Living Wills...A living will is known by several other names, including advanced directive, healthcare declaration, medical directive, and many more. There is often confusion about what these words mean and why...reactionscomments
The FAQs of COPD Caregiving: Part 2...In the first part of this series on caregiving, we talked about the impact of COPD caregiving on the caregiver. We also examined some common facts about caregiving. Finally, we...reactionscomments
New meds...Seeing a pulmonary Doctor the last few months. Got a breathing test done at hospital ( one where you sit in a machine). Dr said I have moderate copd, stage...reactions1reply
How to Help Friends and Family Understand COPD...We all have our individual lives. In this country and this society, they are usually very busy and oftentimes hectic. Which is not to say that they’re not fun because...reactions8comments
Tips for Staying Healthy During the Holidays With COPD...It's that time of year again... the holiday season. Certainly, it can be a happy time for many of us, with parties, gift-giving and extra time to spend with family...reactions6comments
Glossary of Terms for Advanced Care Planning...Perhaps you are thinking about situations where you may not be able to make decisions about your own health care. This may be because you have a chronic illness that...reactionscomments
Travel Bag, Getting Ready (Part 1)...It’s not just a hospital bag, but it is about being prepared for any catastrophe that could unexpectedly come your way and force you to leave your home fast. Last...reactionscomments
Slow Progress...I recently switched primary care doctors. This one is equipped to deal with pulmonary issues as well as day to day primary care stuff. I was not necessarily unhappy with...reactions6comments
Starting Conversations: Advanced Directives...For some, starting conversations regarding end of life care can be very difficult. When is the right time to start that conversation? Who do we start the conversation with? What...reactionsreplies
Winter is Coming...I spent my entire life in Southern California until the spring of 2017 when my family and I decided to move to the Midwest. While it was a relatively “mild”...reactions23comments
Time For The Holidays, Time To Be Prepared...Time has been flying by, and once again, we’re getting ready for the holidays. As my husband and family get to know my needs, they suggest that I write about...reactions3comments
The FAQs of COPD Caregiving: Part 1...No two ways around it -- COPD caregiving can be challenging and sometimes thankless. However, it can also be rewarding, if approached with the right mindset. Are you a new COPD...reactionscomments
What is a Living Will?...The word “will” can seem loaded when mentioned in casual conversation, and it might seem morbid to talk about or even unnecessary for the average person to think about. However...reactionscomments
What Are Blue Bloaters And Pink Puffers?...Listed here are some older terms used to describe COPDers. Rarely are they seen in medical literature these days. But, occasionally I’m asked about them by patients. The terms I’m...reactions8comments
What I Wish Others Understood About COPD...Sometimes, folks think I’m lazy. And, admittedly, I am. I think I’ve said this before – in fact, I know I’ve said this before - but I’d sleep until noon...reactions15comments
A Look Inside the Lungs: Chronic Bronchitis & Emphysema...A person with COPD usually has symptoms of two different conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Those two conditions are now classified under the same name – COPD – because most...reactions4comments
Breathing Strategies: Which Have You Tried?...Here at COPD.net, we are interested in hearing about which of the following breathing strategies and techniques you have tried with your COPD. If you have not yet, and would...reactionscomments
3 C's of COPD Awareness...Three C's that can help you cope with COPD are connection, communication, and courage. It's important to stay connected with every person on your medical team including your primary care...reactions3comments
Stress & COPD: What Can You Do?...When you have COPD, it's perfectly common to feel stressed emotionally. After all, you may be worried about your future and that of your family. You may also be worried...reactionscomments