COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a long-term (chronic) condition that makes it hard to breathe and causes mucous build-up in the lungs.
Common symptoms of COPD
- Hard time breathing or shortness of breath (called dyspnea)
- Cough
- Mucous build-up in the lungs (thick mucous, wet cough)
- Feeling tired
Sometimes, symptoms become worse or happen more often: this is called a flare-up or an exacerbation. A flare-up may last hours or days. Call a doctor for help when a flare-up occurs.
Flare-ups can happen due to
- Stress
- Sickness (cold or flu)
- Breathing in very hot or cold air
- Being near smoke, perfume, or pollen
How to care for someone with COPD
Living with, or caring for someone with COPD can be challenging. Learning about COPD will make it easier to manage care. The ICC team provides a discharge action plan with information about medications and services that ICC team members (i.e. nursing, respiratory therapist, etc.) will provide. Support an individual with COPD by helping them follow their action plan.
Stay Active
Practice breathing techniques
Follow the Plan of Care
Healthy habits to help manage COPD symptoms
- Stop smoking
- Take medications as ordered by a doctor or primary care provider
- Stay active and exercise each day
- Practice breathing techniques or use an inhaler when it’s hard to breathe
- Rest when needed
- Split up tasks to make them easier
- Get pneumonia shot and the yearly flu shot