Others can help you stay well
Living with COPD can be stressful. It’s natural to worry about it. But you don’t have to manage it alone. There are people who understand what you are going through and can help.
Your doctor
The first place to call with questions about symptoms, medications, or anything else related to your COPD is your doctor’s office. Don’t wait for your next checkup if you notice any changes in your breathing. Call right away. If you are feeling depressed, your doctor may recommend medicines, counseling, or other ways to improve your quality of life. Your doctor may also be able to connect you with a patient support group that can help you adjust to living with COPD. You can learn from other people with COPD how they have coped with their symptoms.
Family and friends
Your family, friends, and coworkers can all give you support with COPD. Suggest ways they can help you. They should know what to do if you have a COPD flare-up. Give them contact information for your doctor and a list of medications you take, how much you take, and how often.
American Lung Association
This group provides information on living with COPD as well as tips to stop smoking. Their Better Breathers Club offers ways to cope with COPD and the support of others. Find a local program near you at lung.org, or call 1-800-586-4872.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
This government organization provides news, explanations, and other resources about COPD and lung disease at nhlbi.nih.gov.
COPD Foundation
This organization provides information for patients and caregivers at copdfoundation.org. Callers can receive one-on-one support through the toll-free COPD Information Line at 1-866-316-2673.
Smoking Quitline
Tobacco smoking is the main cause of COPD. If you smoke, quitting now is the best way to slow lung damage. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669) to get support and advice to help you stop smoking.
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