COPD is a difficult disease to live with. There are many things that you have to worry about, like making sure you take your medications and use your inhaler correctly. However, did you know that there are also some things you can do to prevent exacerbations?
Exacerbations, or flare-ups, can be very dangerous and often lead to hospitalizations. Let’s talk about some of the things you can do to help prevent exacerbations and where you can go for comprehensive medical care in Sherman, TX.
What is COPD?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a common lung condition that affects millions of people around the world. The main symptom of COPD is shortness of breath, which can make everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs difficult – and even impossible.
In many cases, COPD is caused by smoking, but it can also be caused by exposure to air pollution or other airborne irritants. There is no cure for COPD, but there are treatments that can help to improve symptoms and quality of life. With early diagnosis and proper management, people with COPD can live long and fulfilling lives.
Quit Smoking or Being Around a Smoker
One of the best things you can do to manage your COPD is to avoid cigarettes and other tobacco products. If you smoke, quitting is the most important thing you can do for your health. It’s never too late to quit smoking, and many resources are available to help you. If you can’t quit smoking on your own, talk to your doctor about medications that can help.
In addition to quitting smoking, it’s also important to avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Even if you don’t smoke yourself, being around smokers can trigger a COPD flare-up. If you have COPD, avoid places where people smoke, such as bars and nightclubs. You should also take care to avoid Smoker’s cough – an infectious disease that is commonly spread through exposure to secondhand smoke.
Avoiding Triggers
People with COPD know all too well the effects of a flare-up. Characterized by a worsening of symptoms, a COPD flare-up can be triggered by factors other than smoking, including cold weather, viral infections, and even certain foods.
While it may not always be possible to avoid all potential triggers, some steps can be taken to help reduce the likelihood of a flare-up. For example, staying indoors on days when the air quality is poor can help to lessen exposure to harmful pollutants.
By being aware of potential triggers and taking steps to avoid them, people with COPD can help to keep their symptoms under control.
Get Vaccinated against the Flu and Pneumonia – These Diseases Can Trigger a COPD Flare-up
For people with COPD, even a cold can be a serious business. That’s why getting vaccinated against the flu and pneumonia is important. These diseases can trigger a COPD flare-up, landing you in the hospital. The good news is that vaccines can help protect you from the flu and pneumonia. The flu vaccine is available every year, and the pneumonia vaccine is usually given once as an adult.
Vaccination in Sherman, TX
If you would like to learn more ways to avoid any type of COPD flare-ups, please reach out to our remarkable providers at Carrus Specialty Hospital. Our doctors, nurses, and professional staff are all passionate about providing you and your loved ones with outstanding medical attention delivered with compassion and warmth. Every single member of Carrus Health is committed to our patient’s health and well-being.
To know more contact us today at (903) 870-2600 or fill in our online appointment request form.