Health Tip: Manage COPD Symptoms

(HealthDay News) -- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term for chronic lung diseases that can severely undermine breathing. Examples include chronic bronchitis or emphysema.

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute offers these suggestions for helping you manage COPD symptoms:

  • Avoid things that are irritating to the lungs, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes and dust.
  • Work with your doctor for ongoing care and treatment. Continue to take COPD medications exactly as prescribed.
  • Be prepared for a health emergency. Contact your doctor if symptoms worsen.
  • Discuss with your doctor any COPD-related anxiety, depression or stress.

    • Related Articles

    Search Allergy Articles

    Newborns' Immune Systems Ramp Up After Birth

    Holidays' Pitfalls for Those With Food Allergies

    Building Tolerance Helps Kids With Wheat Allergy

    Food Allergies Tied to MS Relapses

    Cleaning Your Baby's Pacifier By Sucking On It May Do Baby Good

    Don't Blame Just Air Pollution for Asthma in Kids

    Women With Asthma More Likely to Develop COPD

    Can You Eat Your Way to Better Asthma Control?

    Drug Slows Brain Shrinkage in Progressive MS

    Babies Given Certain Meds May Have Higher Odds for Allergies Later

    Flu Has Arrived for the Holidays, CDC Head Says

    Flu Activity Is Low -- For Now

    U.S. Flu Activity Low Right Now, but Rising: CDC

    Getting Flu Shot Annually Won't Undermine Its Effectiveness in Kids

    Pediatricians Back Flu Shot, Not Nasal Spray Vaccine