Focus on Medications, Rescue Treatment, and Symptom Management
With severe COPD, managing symptoms, improving lung function, and preventing complications is crucial. A combination of medication, rescue treatments, and lifestyle changes can help you stay as active as possible and improve your quality of life.
Key Steps:
- Medications:
- Use your daily maintenance inhalers (bronchodilators and corticosteroids) as prescribed to keep your airways open and reduce inflammation.
- Take any oral medications your doctor prescribes, such as long-acting bronchodilators or anti-inflammatory drugs, to control symptoms.
- Rescue Treatment:
- Always carry your rescue inhaler for quick relief during sudden shortness of breath or flare-ups.
- If symptoms worsen or you have frequent flare-ups, your doctor may prescribe short courses of oral steroids or antibiotics to manage exacerbations.
- Oxygen Therapy:
- If prescribed, use oxygen therapy as directed to maintain healthy oxygen levels, especially during activity or at night.
- Breathing Exercises:
- Practice pursed-lip and diaphragmatic breathing to help control breathlessness.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation programs can provide guidance on breathing techniques and exercises tailored to your needs.
- Prevent Infections:
- Get the flu shot annually and the pneumonia vaccine.
- Wash hands frequently and avoid contact with sick people.
- Regular Check-ups:
- Regularly see your doctor to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed.
By following this plan, you can manage severe COPD more effectively and improve your daily functioning.
For information and a treatment Plan see link
If you have any questions or need clarification about your care plan, please provide the details below.