Lifestyle and Home Remedies for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Lifestyle and Home Remedies for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease.

The condition is characterized by obstructed airflow to the lungs. Some of the common symptoms of COPD include cough, mucus (sputum) production, wheezing, and breathing difficulty.

If you suspect you have COPD, it is recommended that you see a COPD doctor right away. Individuals with COPD have increased risk of developing lung cancer, heart disease, and a variety of other conditions.

While considered a progressive condition, COPD is treatable. Visit your COPD doctor the earliest possible time so the issue is addressed promptly.

Common Symptoms of COPD Typically, COPD symptoms won’t seem significant until damage has occurred. If smoking exposure continues, there is a tendency for the condition to worsen overtime.

Common signs and symptoms of COPD include:

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Chest tightness Wheezing Lack of energy Drastic weight loss (especially during the later stages) Chronic cough (may produce white, clear, yellow, or greenish in color) Frequent respiratory infections Swelling in the legs, feet, and ankles

Lifestyle and Home Remedies For individuals with COPD, the following steps can help make them feel better and slow down lung damage: Breathing control Talk to your respiratory therapist or COPD doctor regarding techniques you can use to breathe more efficiently. You can also ask about energy and relaxation techniques as well as breathing solutions you can use when you are short of breath.

Regular exercise While it can be difficult to exercise when you have difficulty breathing, regular exercise will not only help improve the overall endurance, it can also help ensure the respiratory muscles are strengthened. Prior to starting any exercise regimen, consult your doctor first so you will be given advice on the activities that are appropriate for you.

Clearing the airways For those with COPD, there is a tendency for mucus to accumulate in the air passages.

Oftentimes, they can also be difficult to clear. Drinking plenty of water, controlling coughing, and using a humidifier are some techniques you can look into.

Avoiding air pollution and smoke Aside from quitting smoking, it is important to avoid places where most people smoke.

Secondhand smoke may worsen lung damage. Air pollution may also irritate the lungs so it is recommended that people with COPD should check air quality forecasts before heading out.

Eating healthy and nutritious food A healthy diet will not only help strengthen the immune system, it can also help improve your strength. If you are underweight, your doctor might recommend nutritional supplements. If you are overweight, losing weight might be able to significantly improve your breathing. This is especially true during times of exertion.

See your doctor regularly Follow a routine schedule even if you are feeling just fine. When you have COPD, it is crucial that your lung function is monitored regularly. It might be a good idea to get your annual flu vaccine during the fall to help ensure infection that can worsen your COPD can be prevented.

Check with your doctor if a pneumococcal vaccine is good for you. Also, make sure you inform your doctor right away if you notice signs of infection or you have worsening symptoms.

Coping and Support Living with COPD can be very difficult. This is especially true if it becomes harder to catch your breath. There are instances when you have to give up activities you used to enjoy. Your friends and family may also need to adjust to some of the changes so it would help if you also talk to them about your situation.

If you have any concerns or worries, it would be best to share your feelings with your friends, family, and doctor. You might also want to consider joining a support group for patients with COPD. If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, you might benefit from counseling.