Managing COPD
By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - People who have smoked for many years don't just get lung cancer, they can develop emphysema and other health conditions that fall under the category of copd or chronic obstructive piulmonary disease.
There are certain tips that can help if you have the diagnosis. The first is to quit smoking. Stopping smoking is the best way to slow progression of the disease and live longer.
You should also keep up with immunizations. Infection is one of the primary reasons that copd gets worse.
Another problem is that meany people do not know how to use their inhaler. Inhaled medications aren't as effective if you take them incorrectly.
Finally, get moving. Shortness of breath can make you want to hit the couch instead of the treadmill. But the more active you are, the better quality of life you'll have.
