Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is used to describe chronic lung diseases, including bronchitis, refractory (non-reversible asthma) and emphysema. COPD has many causes, including smoking and genetic factors. 

If you have COPD, it’s important to see your physician regularly as the disease is characterized by flare-ups and remissions and if you don’t take the appropriate steps it can continue to get worse. In some cases it affects patients silently and it’s only later that it impacts their quality of life, leading to hospitalization or death.

While COPD can seriously affect your health, it doesn’t mean you can’t reduce its impact and improve your quality of life. Here are six lifestyle-related ways to keep your COPD under control.

1. If you smoke, stop. The majority of cases of COPD are directly related to cigarette smoking and by quitting smoking, you can reduce or prevent symptoms. Talk to your family physician about smoking cessation aids that might help you succeed. Also, avoid secondhand smoke.

2. Bring a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter home. Poor air quality and pollution can trigger COPD, so look for an air filter that will remove indoor air pollutants. 

3. Get your vaccinations. The common cold or flu can exacerbate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Opt for a flu vaccine, and make sure you’re up to date on your pneumococcal vaccine. If you have travel plans, ensure you have all the necessary travel vaccines. 

4. Maintain a healthy weight. When you’re overweight, your heart and lungs work harder to supply oxygen throughout your body. Being overweight or obese can also puts extra strain on your joints, which can limit your mobility. To help maintain a healthy weight eat a heart-healthy diet and get regular exercise. 

5. Find healthy ways to deal with stress. Stress can make many chronic health conditions worse, including COPD. You may find your COPD symptoms improve with regular exercise, breathing techniques, yoga, massage therapy and/or more sleep. 

6. Don’t be afraid to reach out. Whether it’s contacting your doctor to review medications or seeking counselling because you’re depressed about your health condition, a solid support system is essential.

By making healthy lifestyle choices and working closely with your GP and/or respiratory therapist, you can improve and even prevent COPD symptoms.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you'd like more information on COPD.

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