What is COPD?
GP Dr Jane Gilbert explains COPD with the help of a sponge… “You can make significant improvements to your health” if you start making lifestyle changes. Dr Gilbert talks about medication and disease management.
what is COPD, breathless, self-management, information
Learning how to Manage Things Yourself
Lawrence and Sandra share their experience of living with COPD. Lawrence demonstrates some breathing exercises and shares practical advice.
how to manage, COPD, self-management, information
Medication and COPD
A whole armoury of medication is available to those affected by COPD. Dr Jane Gilbert talks about what is on offer and people living with COPD share their experience.
medication, COPD, information, breathless
Coping with COPD
“Half of the battle is your mental attitude.” People living with COPD share their strategies for coping with the ups and downs of daily life, from getting out in the car, to seeing friends to surfing the ‘net!
COPD, how to cope, feelings, information
Exercise
On the sofa, walking down the garden or out with the dog… there are lots of ways to start exercising. Derrick and Alcwyn know what it’s like to feel breathless and share their experience but the bottom line is that anything you can do will help.
COPD, exercise, panic, breathless,
Sleep
Alcwyn, Susie, Derrick, and Lawrence talk about their experiences of sleep and what works for them.
COPD, sleep, breathless, panic,
Breathlessness
“Breathlessness is the number complaint and fear of those with COPD” Dr Jane Gilbert acknowledges the anxiety among patients. Derrick has emphysema. Susie remembers how she used to panic when she felt breathless but is pleased to report that she can now control it herself.
COPD, breathless, pacing, information,
Pace Yourself
It can be hard to adjust to a new pace of life. Susie found that a Lung Rehabilitation course really made a difference to her everyday life.
COPD, pace, self-management, understanding,
When a Set Back Plan is not enough
Most people with COPD will be looked after by their GP but sometimes a visit to hospital might be necessary. Dr Keir Lewis is a respiratory consultant and explains what to expect and how you might be looked after.
COPD, hospital, support, medication,
Stop Smoking
You are 4 times more likely to be successful with expert help than going it alone.
COPD, smoking, support, stop,
