COPD is a lung disease that gets worse over time, so it's critical to prevent getting COPD and to keep it from progressing once diagnosed. People with Early Signs and Risk Factors for COPD, including those in a high risk group for COPD, should talk to their health care provider about getting an early diagnosis. If diagnosed, it's important to follow the provider's advice to manage the disease, slow its progression, and prevent emergencies.

Stages of COPD
Treatment

Effective COPD treatment involve a combination of medications and devices, and a personalized action plan created by your providers. Additionally, rehabilitation programs and, in severe cases, advanced treatment options may be necessary to manage the condition and improve quality of life.

Management

Managing COPD effectively involves daily self-care to slow the disease's progression and maintain an active, fulfilling life. Here are some important steps:

  • Understand COPD and its effects on your lungs.
  • Consistently take prescribed medications, even when you feel well. Ensure that you use the correct medication and device properly.
  • Identify and avoid triggers and risk factors for COPD. Quitting smoking is crucial. For help, visit 802Quits.org.
  • If you are concerned about potential exposure in the workplace, talk to your manager and/or the Vermont Department of Labor. Make sure to request and use protective equipment.
  • Avoid secondhand smoke and environmental irritants that can further damage your lungs and make breathing harder.
  • Be familiar with and adhere to your COPD Action Plan. Share it with family and caretakers to aid in managing symptoms or emergencies
  • Follow your healthcare provider's advice on pulmonary rehabilitation, exercise, and additional support.
Additional Steps

These are additional actions you can take to manage your COPD, slow its progression, and promote a good quality of life.

  • Stay physically active. Your region’s Area Agencies on Aging likely offers free or discounted exercise options.
  • Ask your provider about the potential for nutrition counseling and a fresh food prescription.
  • If you are struggling with your diagnosis, anxiety and/or depression, ask your provider about counseling options.
  • Protect yourself from lung infections by staying up to date on your vaccinations:
  • Get a flu (influenza) vaccine every year.
  • Get the pneumonia (pneumococcal) vaccine.
  • Get all available COVID-19 vaccines and make sure you have had the latest boosters.
  • Have good communication and relationships with family, friends, caretakers, and your health care team members to keep things positive and on the right track.
  • Continue to do the things you like to do and pursue new interests to protect your physical and mental health.

These pages are designed to provide information, resources and tools to help you understand and prevent COPD, learn about best practice treatment and care approaches, and better manage COPD and support good quality of life living with COPD. 

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