its COPD...you can take steps to feel better and slow the
damage to your lungs:
Control your breathing. Talk to your doctor or respiratory
therapist about techniques for breathing more efficiently
throughout the day. Also be sure to discuss breathing positions
and relaxation techniques that you can use when you're short of
breath.
Clear your airways. With COPD, mucus tends to collect in your
air passages and can be difficult to clear. Controlled coughing,
drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier may help.
Exercise regularly. It may seem difficult to exercise when you
have trouble breathing, but regular exercise can improve your
overall strength and endurance and strengthen your respiratory
muscles.
Eat healthy foods. A healthy diet can help you maintain your
strength. If you're underweight, your doctor may recommend
nutritional supplements. If you're overweight, losing weight can
significantly help your breathing, especially during times of
exertion.
Avoid smoke and air pollution. In addition to quitting smoking,
it's important to avoid places where others smoke. Secondhand
smoke may contribute to further lung damage. Other types of air
pollution also can irritate your lungs.
See your doctor regularly. Stick to your appointment schedule,
even if you're feeling fine. It's important to steadily monitor your
lung function. And be sure to get your annual flu vaccine in the
fall to help prevent infections that can worsen your COPD. Ask
your doctor when you need the pneumococcal vaccine.
Answered2015-10-05 16:32:44
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