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Managing Your COPD

Home > Health Centers > Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) > Managing Your COPD
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Care
Rehabilitation is based on a team approach. The team may include a physiatrist, respiratory therapist, a rehab nurse, physical therapist, and registered dietitian, and other specialists.
Managing Symptoms
Work with your health care provider to keep track of your symptoms. It's important to report if your symptoms change or become worse.
Managing Medications and Equipment
Make a list of medications you take and when you take them—and let family members know, too. If an emergency occurs, they'll need that information.
Self-Care
You can help to manage your COPD: Follow a healthy diet, get regular exercise, quit smoking, and stay up-to-date on your flu and pneumonia immunizations.
Preventing Complications
Planning a vacation? COPD doesn't mean you can't enjoy life—you'll just need to take extra precautions and check in with your doctor.