Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

DIAGNOSIS

What Is It?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a long-term lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. The disease affects millions of Americans and is the third leading cause of disease-related death in the U.S. The good news is COPD is often preventable and treatable.  Here you'll find information, resources and tools to help you understand COPD, manage treatment and lifestyle changes, find support and take action.

Living with COPD

It is inevitable that your life will change after being diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It may not be as easy to do the things you used to do before. Not only are there physical challenges, there are emotional challenges too. The good news is that you can find support to help you make lifestyle changes, better manage your COPD and enhance your quality of life.

Managing COPD

Create a management plan to track your medication and healthcare needs, learn about nutrition and exercise, get advice on coping with emotions and see how to plan your future care with your doctors and caregivers.

Finding Support

An important part of living with COPD is finding the right support, both for you and your caregivers. See where you can find help from others who share common experiences, get tips on paying for care and learn how you can advocate to improve the lives of others with COPD.

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