Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) causes breathing problems that can make it difficult to do the things you normally do each day. This guide helps you understand what COPD is, how it’s treated and where to find others with COPD on the Web.
Expand All Guide SectionsWhat is COPD?
COPD refers to two diseases: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Together, these diseases are the ... read more »
COPD Symptoms and Diagnosis
Doctors use a number of methods, such as X-rays and breathing tests, to determine whether someone ... read more »
Treating and Preventing COPD
Treating COPD can take many paths. Doctors often use medication and, depending on the ... read more »
COPD Management and Support
The Web is a good place to find other people who have COPD. There are many blogs, forums and support organizations where you can share your thoughts about COPD and learn how others are managing.
Dulcinea's Insight
- Check your local weather forecast before going outside each day. Smog and pollution can make breathing more difficult for people with COPD, asthma or other breathing conditions. The Weather Channel has Air Quality Reports for the United States. Simply choose your state for a list of cities.
- Though it’s good to get tips and learn how others are managing COPD, remember that someone else’s experience is no substitute for your doctor’s care. If you learn of an interesting medication or treatment from the Web, be sure to talk to your doctor about it.
Dulcinea's Picks
For coping with COPD …
National Jewish Medical and Research Center
has a guide to help people cope with a COPD diagnosis. Learn about using a portable oxygen tank, helping your family adjust to a COPD diagnosis and more.
For eating with COPD …
Cleveland Clinic
has an extensive article on good nutrition for people with COPD. Look for advice on improving your appetite, get suggestions on what to eat and drink, and even find recipes for high-calorie snacks that promote weight gain.
For traveling with COPD …
Cleveland Clinic
has a tip sheet for people with COPD who want to travel. Get special tips for traveling by plane, bus, car or cruise ship.
For support groups …
Emphysema Foundation for our Right to Survive
is a group that was formed by three people who have emphysema. This site lists pulmonary support groups in every state and the District of Columbia. Also find support groups in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, India and the United Kingdom.
For blogs …
Let’s Talk: Living Today With COPD
is written by an Illinois man who has the disease. His posts discuss sleep, depression, exercise and his life.
Respiratory Report
is written by Bob Sherman, a respiratory therapist who owns a medical supply company in the Western United States. His posts are mostly about COPD-related government policies. Some posts are directed toward patients, such as the “Tips for Using a Home Pulse Oximeter.” Sherman posts, on average, about once a week.
For forums …
Life With COPD
has fairly active forums with all sorts of COPD-related topics. Registration isn’t needed to read or post to the forums.
COPD International
is a nonprofit organization founded by seven people with COPD and run by a network of volunteers. Look for message boards and chat rooms for those who have COPD, as well as for caregivers, children and teens. The site also has three e-mail lists and a weekly newsletter.
COPD News and Research
New discoveries about chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder and how it is detected, managed and ... read more »
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