What are the 4 stages of COPD?

Stages of COPD
Stage I (Early)
Stage II (Moderate)
***** Stage III (Severe)
Stage IV (Very Severe)

8 Signs You May Be Having a COPD Flare

American Lung Association

Two breathing techniques in particular, pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing, are especially beneficial to people with COPD. Practice them correctly and you can improve quality of life and reduce COPD symptoms such as breathlessness, according to research published in 2014 in BMC Pulmonary Medicine.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Specialist

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation specialists work with patients who have been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The cost to you of PR depends on your insurance coverage and the program you choose. Medicare covers pulmonary rehabilitation for COPD if you meet certain requirements. The pulmonary rehabilitation program coordinator can tell you if you qualify and what the cost to you will be. There are many factors to consider when selecting a pulmonary rehabilitation program. If you haven’t already, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to determine if pulmonary rehab is a good fit for you.

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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is a long-term lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. The disease affects millions of Americans and is the third leading cause of disease-related death in the U.S. The good news is COPD is often preventable and treatable. Here you’ll find information, resources and tools to help you understand COPD, manage treatment and lifestyle changes, find support and take action. CLICK HERE.

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If you, or a loved one, suffers with a chronic lung disease, like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pulmonary fibrosis, there is hope for rebuilding strength and enjoying a more full and active life through pulmonary rehabilitation. These programs are designed to improve lung function, reduce symptom severity and improve quality of life. CLICK HERE.

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Pulmonary rehab programs vary in format and length. Most programs use a small group format and include:

1. Education about your condition, symptoms, medications and oxygen
2. Supervised exercise classes and instruction
3. Breathing techniques
4. Nutritional counseling
5. Emotional health support
CLICK HERE.

Why Breathing Exercises

Out with the old, stale air and in with new fresh air. That’s the theme of the two most useful breathing exercises pursed-lip breathing and belly breathing taught by pulmonary rehabilitation specialists to individuals with chronic lung diseases such as asthma and COPD. Like aerobic exercise improves your heart function and strengthens your muscles, breathing exercises can make your lungs more efficient. CLICK HERE.

Pursed Lip Breathing

Belly Breathing