Take care of your whole health to feel great
When you have COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), you have to take care of your lungs. But taking care of the rest of your body also helps avoid chronic symptoms of COPD. Follow these simple suggestions to help stay well and feel your best.
Create a plan for action
A good plan helps you avoid or control flare-ups, and that lowers your risk of other health problems. Work with your doctor to create your own plan for controlling COPD. Your plan should include:
- your medications and how much and when to take them
- a way to record your symptoms
- diet and exercise goals
- an action plan to spell out what to do when symptoms change
Make sure your plan covers any other conditions you may have.
Eat well
A balanced diet can help improve your breathing while also reducing your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Choose vegetables and whole grains for healthy carbs that provide you with energy. If you sometimes find it hard to breathe after eating, try eating smaller meals. If your doctor says you’re at risk for diabetes, ask about working with a dietitian to design a meal plan to help control blood sugar.
Watch your weight
Too much weight on your body makes your lungs, muscles, and bones have to work harder. Too little weight can be a sign you’re not getting enough nourishment. You may feel tired, have a harder time breathing, and be more likely to get sick. If you are losing weight but haven’t changed your eating habits, make an appointment with your doctor. You may need to add more calories to your diet or make other simple adjustments.
Keep moving
Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do to improve your breathing. Exercise doesn’t have to be a gym workout. A brief walk, a task like tidying up your house, or a simple chair exercise counts as activity that’s good for you. Check with your doctor first before starting any new activity or exercise program.
Try This Sitting Down
- Sit in a sturdy chair with knees bent, feet on the floor.
- Raise right knee as far as comfortable so foot is 4 to 6 inches off the floor.
- Lower foot back down to the floor. Repeat 5 to 10 times.
- Switch legs and raise left knee.
