Health Tip: Helping COPD

(HealthDay News) -- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term that describes long-term lung diseases including emphysema and bronchitis.

The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute names these possible treatment options for COPD:

  • Use an inhaled medication, including a bronchodilator or steroid drug.
  • Attend pulmonary rehabilitation to help you learn how to manage symptoms.
  • Exercise to improve strength and breathing.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Avoid pollution when possible.
  • Use oxygen therapy.
  • Have lung surgery to treat severe COPD.

    • Related Articles

    Health Tip: Minimizing Shortness of Breath

    Continue

    AHA News: Emphysema May Raise Risk of Ruptured Aneurysms

    Continue

    Blacks, Hispanics Bear Burden of Air Pollution: Study

    Continue

    Search Cold & Flu Articles

    Skip the Cold Meds for Kids Under 6, Experts Say

    Whopping Numbers on Whooping Cough

    How to Decide When You're Too Sick to Work

    Whooping Cough Vaccine Effectiveness Fades With Time: Study

    The Secret Behind Chicken Soup's Medical Magic

    Many Parents Wrong About What Prevents Colds in Kids

    Skip the Cold Meds for Kids Under 6, Experts Say

    Colds Especially Bad? Your Nose Might Be to Blame

    1 in 4 Antibiotic Prescriptions Isn't Needed: Study

    New One-Dose Flu Drug Shows Promise

    1 in 4 Antibiotic Prescriptions Isn't Needed: Study

    Steer Clear of Obese Friends With the Flu

    Flu Season Lingers in Big Cities

    More Severe Strain of Flu Starting to Spread Widely: CDC