Unlike some diseases, COPD typically has a clear cause and path for prevention, and there are proven ways to slow its progression.

Pulmonary rehabilitation is an important part of managing your COPD and improving your overall quality of life. Rehabilitation programs typically partner you with a multidisciplinary care team. These programs are traditionally offered in hospitals, or virtually through partners like Vigor.

COPD treatment requires a careful and thorough evaluation by a qualified physician. It can alleviate symptoms, decrease the frequency and severity of exacerbations, and increase exercise tolerance.

Unlike some diseases, COPD typically has a clear cause and path for prevention, and there are proven ways to slow its progression. In COPD patients, quitting smoking has been found to lead to better results and reduced risk of death, hospitalization and emergency department visits.

Remember to always contact your doctor if you’re already experiencing early signs of an exacerbation.

In the meantime, here are some tips on how to keep exacerbations (flare-ups) at bay.

An acute exacerbation — when you have serious symptoms like fever, shaking chills, confusion, chest pain, and coughing up blood — can land you in the hospital. You’re more likely to end up in a hospital when you’ve had at least three flare-ups in the past year or if you have severe COPD (even without a flare-up).

When you have COPD, it’s possible that you’ll experience a worsening of your existing symptoms or develop new symptoms. For example, you may suddenly have more trouble or make more noise when you’re breathing.

In order to understand how exactly COPD affects your body, it is helpful to first understand how your lungs work.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) refers to a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related complications. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common conditions1. Over 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, and millions more suffering from it are undiagnosed and being inadequately treated2. Currently, there is no cure for COPD, but your symptoms can be managed.