Staying regularly hydrated plays an important role in fighting infection, supplying nutrients to the body, and keeping organs functioning properly. [1] Water also regulates the body’s temperature [2] and will replenish any fluids you lose from urinating, sweating, or excessive exercising. There is no doubt that water is essential to our health and wellness, but […]
Many of us may know a friend or loved one living with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)—a serious lung condition that affects more than 16.4 million Americans[1]. Though more research is being conducted on the causes and treatments of this disease, COPD is still the third leading cause of death in the United States[2]. COPD […]
If you’re experiencing shortness of breath, fatigue, or chronic cough, it might be time to speak to your doctor about getting tested for COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). COPD is a serious lung condition that a person can develop from long-term exposure to tobacco smoke, chemicals, fumes, and other harmful pollutants, including ammonia […]
Staying active, eating healthy, and building muscle is good for the body and mind, especially if you’re living with a respiratory condition like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, you may find it more challenging than others to exercise on a regular basis if you’re experiencing a flare up or worsening of COPD symptoms, such […]
As we brace ourselves for another winter season, many people living with COPD and cystic fibrosis are taking extra precautions this year to protect their lungs against the colder temperatures and drier air conditions, all of which are known to exacerbate symptoms.[1] In a previous article, we shared some common triggers you should avoid and […]
For many of us, 2020 has been a challenging year. But as with any obstacle, people all over the country continue to persevere and work together to help those who may be at greater risk of complications due to the recent pandemic. As we gear up for the New Year ahead, we wanted to share […]
Emphysema falls under the umbrella of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). It’s an irreversible lung condition that damages the alveoli (air sacs) and obstructs our ability to breathe and move oxygen into the bloodstream: “When you exhale, the damaged alveoli don’t work properly and old air becomes trapped, leaving no room for fresh, oxygen-rich air […]
Viruses like the flu can be hard on the body’s immune system. But if you’re living with COPD or another chronic lung condition, a seasonal flu can cause flare ups and leave you vulnerable to other serious health complications. Therefore, it’s important to take every precaution necessary to prevent exposure and stay healthy this season. […]
Living with a chronic respiratory illness like COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), bronchiectasis, or an overlapping of the two conditions can take a toll on your mental health. You may feel isolated from the hobbies you enjoy doing, as well as the people you love spending time with. Though respiratory conditions have always presented certain […]
A COPD flare up (also known as an COPD exacerbation) is a sudden worsening of symptoms that can leave you feeling low on energy, short on breath, or tightness in the chest area. Other common symptoms of COPD that may worsen during a flare up include[1]: Chronic cough Mucus Build up Respiratory infections Wheezing Swelling […]