As someone with COPD, you may find it helpful to know about the four components of care described in the GOLD guidelines.

Wheezing is caused by narrowing airways in the lungs. It's a sign that there is difficulty breathing and is a common symptom of many disorders.

Shortness of breath is an uncomfortable feeling of not getting enough air and can be a symptom of a serious medical condition.

Coughing is a normal reflex that helps clear the lungs. Usually it is a minor annoyance, but sometimes a cough is a sign of a more serious condition. Most coughs are caused by postnasal drip, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or smoking.

Here is information to help you see how well you are managing your COPD.

If you have COPD, it may be difficult to tell whether you also have heart failure (HF). This is because the two diseases have similar symptoms and common risk factors.

Rehab is based on a team approach and combines exercise, emotional support and education. You and your providers work together to create a treatment plan just for you.

Every breath can be a chore when you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Part of the treatment for chronic conditions involves adopting the same healthy lifestyle habits that are important for everyone.

Effective pain treatments are available. You can also take steps yourself to ease ongoing discomfort.

Be aware of the early warning signs of change, such as more frequent symptoms or the onset of a new symptom.

Maintenance medicines work for an extended time after you take them.

Check with your health care provider about the level of strength training that makes sense for you, and keep some ground rules in mind.

Eat several small meals throughout the day rather than three big meals. Big meals fill up your stomach, which can press on your lungs and make breathing harder.

It’s possible to take medications that control stomach acid to help relieve the symptoms of GERD.

The first step is to choose a quit date and mark it on your calendar.

What kind of care would you want if you were no longer able to speak for yourself?

As someone with COPD, you may find it helpful to know about the four components of care described in the GOLD guidelines.

When you have COPD, you’re more likely to develop a lung infection (pneumonia) with a cold or the flu. To stay healthier, avoid contact with germs. Get prompt treatment at the first sign of illness.

When you have lung problems, you can help yourself feel better by conserving your energy. Pacing yourself, avoiding bending and lifting, and simplifying tasks will allow you to do more without getting short of breath.

Those most at risk for pneumonia include the elderly, smokers, and people with chronic lung diseases.

If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, you know that they cause similar symptoms.

Two nutrients that are critical to keep in check when you have COPD are sodium and potassium. Here are tips on how to watch your intake of them.

Acute bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, the hollow air passages that connect the lungs to the windpipe.

The first step is to choose a quit date and mark it on your calendar.

Here's what to do to help prevent another flare-up—and stay out of the hospital.

Two things to remember if you use an inhaler: keep it clean and keep track of how much medication is left, so you’ll never run out.

Some COPD medications are taken using a device called an inhaler. The inhaler helps you take a measured dose of medication into your lungs. Not all inhalers work the same way. Have your healthcare provider show you how to use and care for the type of inhaler you’re given.

To control asthma, you need to use your medications the right way. Some medications are inhaled using a device called a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). Metered-dose inhalers use a fine spray to dispense medication. You may be asked to use a spacer (holding tube) with your inhaler. The spacer helps make sure all the medication you need goes into your lungs. Follow these steps.

Dry-powder inhalers use tiny grains of powder to dispense medication. These inhalers don’t require spacers. They often have counters that track how many doses you use. Keep in mind that dry-powder inhalers don’t all work the same way. So be sure you know how to use yours properly.

To reduce the chances of fire and other hazards, you need to follow guidelines when using your oxygen unit.

To use oxygen at home safely, you will need to follow certain steps each each time you use your oxygen unit.

You can travel oxygen. You just need to plan ahead. Keep copies of your oxygen prescription and any other paperwork you’ll need.

Home oxygen therapy can help improve the length and quality of life for a person with COPD.

Exercise can help reduce COPD problems, such as shortness of breath and limits on your activity level.

Here are some common reasons people don’t exercise. Are any of these true for you?

Becoming overheated can put people with COPD at risk for serious illness. Stay cool this summer with these tips.

A small amount of alcohol—such as a single beer or glass of wine with dinner—is fine for some people. On the other hand, drinking too much alcohol is harmful for anyone.

When you have COPD, even getting dressed can sometimes seem like a challenge.

Clean air is easier to breathe, especially if you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Aim for five or six mini-meals rather than two or three large meals throughout the day.

Having a chronic condition such as COPD can lead to depression. You can get help. Talk with your doctor about your symptoms.