Table of Contents
Understanding COPD .......................................................................................................... 3
What Is COPD? ....................................................................................................................... 3
How the Lungs Work ............................................................................................................. 6
Symptom Guidelines .............................................................................................................. 9
Quitting Smoking .............................................................................................................. 11
The Quitting Process ............................................................................................................ 11
Quit-Smoking Aids ............................................................................................................... 12
Quit-Smoking Resources ...................................................................................................... 12
Taking Medicines for COPD ............................................................................................ 13
Getting Started ...................................................................................................................... 13
Guidelines for Taking Medicines Correctly......................................................................... 14
Types of COPD Medicines ................................................................................................... 15
Using Inhalers and Other Devices....................................................................................... 17
Breathing Better ................................................................................................................. 21
Breathing Techniques .......................................................................................................... 21
Keeping Your Lungs Clear ................................................................................................... 23
Protecting against Infection ................................................................................................. 24
Avoiding Irritants and Allergens .......................................................................................... 26
Using Oxygen ..................................................................................................................... 27
COPD and Your Heart ......................................................................................................... 27
Why Oxygen Therapy Is So Important ............................................................................... 28
Common Questions about Oxygen Therapy ...................................................................... 29
Qualifying for Home Oxygen .............................................................................................. 29
Oxygen Equipment .............................................................................................................. 30
Oxygen Safety....................................................................................................................... 32
Living with COPD .............................................................................................................. 34
Conserving Energy and Simplifying Work .......................................................................... 34
Exercise and Pulmonary Rehabilitation............................................................................... 35
Eating Well When You Have COPD ................................................................................... 39
Managing Stress and Anxiety ............................................................................................... 43
Do Mini-Relaxation Breathing Exercises ............................................................................. 44
COPD and Depression ......................................................................................................... 46
Coping with Chronic Illness ................................................................................................ 48
Tips for a Better Life ............................................................................................................ 50
Other Resources ................................................................................................................... 51
Notes ..................................................................................................................................... 52
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