Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, can cause a range of problems for those men and women who are diagnosed with it. Because the condition is most often associated with lifelong smokers, most doctors will likely advise their patients to kick the habit as soon as possible. Even if they already have several symptoms of the disease, it is still helpful to cut out the cigarettes. Any improvement in lung capacity may allow some of those symptoms to eventually lessen, which will improve the quality of their lives quite a bit.

If men and women are not sure of the possible symptoms, there are a range of things that they should look for. Those individuals who are frequently troubled by a dry, hacking cough may want to be checked out. In some cases, this cough may be accompanied by mucus, which indicates that the lungs and pulmonary pathways are having trouble working correctly. Some general practitioners may eventually send their patients to a respiratory specialist. These specialists can prescribe medication that should dry up the mucus and help with breathing during bad periods.

Because those with COPD do not breathe normally, they may become tired or fatigued at certain times of the day. They can combat these symptoms by eating correctly and getting some physical exercise from time to time. They should also make a concerted attempt to get eight hours of sleep each night. If they have trouble breathing during the night hours, they might take some medication before they go to sleep. Those individuals with severe symptoms may even be given an oxygen machine by their doctors. These machines, it should be noted, are delicate pieces of technology and should be treated with care whenever they are being moved.

Other natural remedies may be available. Men and women can slowly begin to build up their lung strength by taking short walks on several days each week. As they begin to feel better, they can increase the length of these walks. By adhering to a plan of aerobic activity each week, they can train their hearts and lungs to perform more efficiently during periods of rest. When they return to the respiratory specialists for a checkup, they may be surprised by how much their lung capacity has improved over just a few months or so.

As individuals continue to deal with their COPD, they should lean on family members and friends whenever they are having a particularly bad day. With the support of loved ones, they should make progress in ameliorating the condition and moving on with their lives.

The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor is it ever intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice or professional recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician(s) or other qualified healthcare provider(s).