Learning to live with COPD?

Answer 1

Breathe as often as you can through pursed lips. This type of breathing does 2 things: it equalises the air pressure inside and outside the lungs and it expands the aveoli and makes them stretch and take in more oxygen.

When you walk, breathe out when you step down. This forces air out of your lungs. Then breathe in when your lift your leg to start a new step.

If you like to sing, do it often, as singing is very much like pursed lip breathing.

If you have any congestion, tap you ribs briskly each day with a cupped hand. This is called chest percussion, and it helps break loose any secretions that may be in your chest or throat.

When sitting, use your arms to elevate your torso. You can sit with your elbows on the table and have your hands under your chin. This is called the tripod position and it allows more air into your lungs. By moving a little, you can sit much longer this way. It can be like a rocking motion.

If necessary, use oxygen or a C-Pap machine at night. I would suggest you get a sleep study to see if you need either of these.

Most importantly, have a good pulmonologist you trust. See if he might prescribe an oxsymeter for you to use to measure your oxygen levels both at rest and in motion.

Stay active as possible and good luck.

Answer 2

Can you be more specific about what you want to know about living with COPD?