COPD FAQ’s

What is COPD?

COPD is Chronic Obstructure Pulmonary Disease. COPD is a progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. “Progressive” means that the disease worsens as time passes…especially without proper treatment.

What can I expect when I stop smoking?

• Heart rates and blood pressures will normalize
• Peripheral circulation will begin to improve in as little as 12 hours
• Withdrawl symptoms will induce in as little as three hours. Such as intense cravings, anxiety, tension, drowsiness, trouble sleeping, and increased appetite.
• Carbon monoxide levels in the body will decrease within the first 24 hours
• Risk for heart attacks decrease after the first 2 weeks
• Smell and taste senses will shows dramatic enhancements in the first week
• It takes 3 days for the nicotine to fully be out of your system
• Lung and circulation will improve significantly resulting in a stronger and more efficient respiratory system.

If I start to feel better, do I have to continue to take my breathing treatments or inhaler?

• Yes. It is very important to know which drugs you are taking and why you are doing so. If medications are preventative, then you were prescribed them to take them on a daily basis in order to prevent reoccurences.
• Some breathing medications are prescribed on a “as needed” basis. This type of prescription is to be utilized when experiencing symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, etc.
• Knowing your cardio-pulmonary conditions and how to properly manage them is extremely important. Either you can manage the symptoms or the symptoms will manage you.

Can Asthma be life threatening?

• Yes. The good news about asthma is that it can be successfully treated. Along with your prescribed medication, you should consult with your health provider on the seriousness of the condition, and how to properly treat the symptoms. Regular follow-ups with your health provider are strongly recommended to help manage progression in maintaining the symptoms.
• Without proper treatment, asthma can be extremely dangerous, even fatal.

How can I help manage Asthma?

• Learn to recognize the symptoms
• Avoid your identified asthma triggers
• Taking your medications as prescribed
• Know what to do in the event of an asthma attack
•  Hold regular follow-ups with your provider and ask questions to help stay informed