You might be surprised to learn that the food you eat influences more than your digestive system, and your diet actually has a big impact on other systems in your body. The food you eat can fuel your muscles, strengthen your bones, clear your mind, and even help you breathe better, if you are eating the right foods.

You need a variety of foods with different nutrients to get all of the needs your body requires, and no single food will supply you with everything— which is why a healthy diet is one with plenty of variety.

If you have a respiratory disease, breathing complications are obviously one of the main symptoms that that you have to struggle with daily. Options to combat breathlessness are medications like bronchodilators in the form of inhalers, and utilizing oxygen therapy in the form of a portable oxygen concentrator. However, simple daily tasks should also be noted as some of the most important ways to treat and manage your respiratory disease, and this includes changing your diet.

If you have a respiratory disease, you can eat a specific diet that will actually help you to breathe easier, and will contribute to relieving your respiratory systems and help to ease the experience with pains or implications your disease may be posing on you.

You and your healthcare team should devise a meal plan, just for you, based on your symptoms and personal nutrient deficiencies. You can also start to meet with a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) that will help you figure out the best foods for you. You can find a RDN who specializes in diets for respiratory illnesses by asking your doctor to recommend you to one or visiting the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics online and doing your own research.

So while your diet plan will be specific to you and your needs, changing your diet and eating healthy can be very challenging especially if you don’t normally pay much attention to your diet. Therefore, you can take some advice in this article that will help you develop healthier eating habits.

Maintaining a healthy weight

You should start to weigh yourself regularly, and monitor whether you are gaining or losing weight after setting up your diet plan. If you continue to lose or gain weight while following your recommended diet, talk to your doctor and RDN and make sure this is normal, and if you should be maintaining a steady weight, become informed on how to make changes in your diet. There are several health complications that can result from being underweight or overweight.

Maintaining a healthy weight is so important because if you are well-nourished you will be able to handle infections should you be exposed to a virus or bacteria. When people with a respiratory disease get an infection, it can become serious quickly and result in hospitalization either due to exacerbated symptoms or other complications. Should you catch a common cold or flu and illness does occur, having a well-nourished diet can help you fight off the infection, respond better to treatment, and have less severe symptoms.

Food and your respiratory system

Your metabolism will change the food in your body into energy that your muscles use. Your lungs are a muscle too that need fuel to operate correctly, and if you have a respiratory disease, like COPD for instance, your lungs are already compromised in doing their job. Therefore, the proper mix of nutrients in your diet can help you breathe easier.

Carbohydrates

If you have a respiratory disease, eating a diet with fewer carbohydrates and more fat will help you breathe easier.

Specifically choosing complex carbohydrates, such as whole-grain bread and pasta, fresh fruits and vegetables and limiting simple carbohydrates, like table sugar, candy, cake and regular soft drinks.

Fiber

Eating 20 to 30 grams of fiber each day, from items such as bread, pasta, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables.

Protein

Eat a good source of protein at least twice a day to help maintain strong respiratory muscles. Good choices include eggs, cheese, meat, fish, poultry, nuts and dried beans or peas.

Mono-saturated fats

Choose mono- and poly-unsaturated fats, which do not contain cholesterol. These are fats that come from plant sources, such as canola, safflower and corn oils.

Foods to avoid

2. Acidic foods and drinks. Eating acidic food and drinks like coffee creates heartburn and people with lung disease may find that acid reflux increases their lung disease symptoms. limit acidic foods and drinks like citrus, fruit juice, tomato sauce, coffee and spicy foods in order to reduce acid reflux symptoms, and therefore, lung disease symptoms.

3. Carbonated beverages. Unsurprisingly, carbonated beverages are filled with sugar, empty calories and lots of carbonation. Therefore, they contribute to weight gain and increased bloating. The increased gas and bloating are two factors you want to avoid if you have a lung disease. Bloating and weight gain can put more pressure on your already weakened lungs. Avoid carbonated beverages such as sodas, beer, sparkling wine or sparkling cider also contribute to dehydration. So, when you’re thirsty, hydrate with water.

4. Cold cuts. A study from European Respiratory Journal suggests that added nitrates from food like cold cuts increase the risk for COPD related hospital readmissions. Limit your cured meats such as bacon, cold cuts, ham and hotdogs because all of which contain additives called nitrates.

5. Cruciferous vegetables. Vegetables, such as cabbage, broccoli, radishes and cauliflower, are filled with nutrients and fiber, but if they give you extra gas, try limiting them, and substituting other veggies into your diet when you can. Gas and bloating are uncomfortable for people with respiratory disease because these symptoms can make breathing difficult.

6. Dairy products. While milk is filled with calcium, for people with lung disease, dairy products can worsen symptoms because it contains casomorphin which has been known to increase mucus in your intestines. People with lung disease often experience an increased production of mucus in their airways already, and clearing the mucus is an important aspect of managing the disease.

7. Excessive Salt A salt-heavy diet can be a problem for people with lung disease. Salt retains water, and having too much water in your system can cause breathing problems. Try using herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of your food rather than salt.

8. Fried Foods. Fried foods can cause bloating and discomfort which pushes on your diaphragm, making it difficult and uncomfortable to breathe. Eating a lot of fried food will lead to weight gain, which will add increased pressure on your lungs.

Some of these foods listed in this section are guilty pleasures, and every once a while it can be ok, even if you have a lung disease. However, if any of these foods are a part of your daily diet, it might be time to make a serious change and cut these foods out of your diet.

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This is not easy, foods that are high in sugar and fat can be addicting, and no one ever said sticking to a well balanced diet was easy.

Here are some tips for changing your diet

While we have explained some basic nutrition guidelines for people with respiratory disease, we also know how challenging it can be to avoid certain foods as well as consistently adding certain foods into your daily meals.

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We created a list of tips and some useful suggestions that will make changing your diet, and maintaining a health weight more attainable.

1. Rest just before eating if eating makes you short of breath or tired
2. Instead of eating three large meals a day, it may be helpful to aim to eat four to six smaller meals. This should reduce stomach fullness and associated pressure on the lungs.
3. Eat your main meal earlier: You may find that you have more energy throughout the day if you eat your main meal earlier in the day.
4. Avoid foods that cause gas or bloating, this makes breathing more difficult, these include onions, cauliflower, broccoli, melons, peas, corn, cucumbers, cabbage, brussels sprouts, turnips, raw apples, and beans (except green beans). Fried and greasy foods can also cause gas or bloating.
5. Eat more small meals a day around 4-6 compared to 3 big meals. This allows your diaphragm to move frequently and freely and helps your lungs fill with air and empty out more easily without a completing full stomach
6. If drinking liquids with meals makes you feel too full to eat, limit liquids with meals and instead drink liquids after meals
7. Ask you doctor or nutritionist about adding a nutritional supplement at night time to avoid feeling full during the day
8. Ask your doctor or nutritionist about drinking a high-protein, high-energy drink that can help boost nutrition if you are unable to tolerate high volumes of food
9. Choose foods that are easy to prepare, try using a crock pot that cooks your food for you over a period of time
10. Eat in a relaxed enviorment
11. Eat socially with friends and family
12. Take your breathing medications and/or clear your airways about 1 hour before eating
13. Sit up straight while you are eating to relieve pressure on your lungs
14. If you use supplemental oxygen, use it while you are eating. Eating and digestion require energy, which causes your body to use more oxygen
15. Eat and chew slowly so you are less likely to become short of breath. Try putting your spoon or fork down between bites to slow your eating speed and don’t get out of breath

Setting goals and tracking your diet

Setting goals is a great way to get started on a new eating plan. One way you can do this is by tracking your progress, and developing goals based on what you have accomplished already. You can also develop goals based on what your and your nutritionist and/or doctor decide would be the best for you.

You can set a variety of goals pertaining to your diet and weight and it's a great way to stay in check with what matters to you and getting healthier so you are better capable of managing your COPD.

Some goals you might try to set are:

• Gaining or losing 5 pounds depending on your current weight
• Adding more protein into your meals, and limiting your simple carbohydrates intake to once per week
• Cooking more healthy foods rather than ordering take out
• Buy a cookbook filled with healthy meals and trying a new recipe once per week

Once you have developed a few goals, the next step is to make an action plan, you can do this by asking yourself, “What steps do I need to accomplish to reach my goal?’” Then you can determine which step you will take first, and when.

Here is an example of how to set and make a plan for accomplishing goals:

Tracking your health is a great way to monitor what you're eating and how the foods you eat influences your mood, symptoms, and energy. You can make a list of the meals you ate and next to each meal take a few notes about how you felt afterwards.

You can keep track of what food makes you feel bloated so you know to avoid that in the future, and keep track of the foods you enjoy that give you energy throughout the day.

We call this a respiratory health diary, and this tactic is very helpful for people with respiratory diseases, but anybody can benefit from tracking their health.

A health diary can help you with just about any aspect of how to manage your disease, including monitoring symptoms, keeping your prescriptions in line, and making healthy changes like reaching a healthy weight.

If you have a respiratory illness, your ability to set goals and reach them can have a huge impact on your quality of life and the course of your disease. Having a dedicated health tracking system to help you manage your well-being with aspects like diet, exercise, and disease management has a huge impact on your health and well-being and your quality of life over-all.

Overview

Having a respiratory illness is not easy, nor is changing your diet. But the truth is, even if you have the best portable oxygen concentrator in the world, the Caire Freestyle Comfort is not going to do all of the work you need to do in order to get your respiratory disease under control.

While having the right oxygen equipment is important and taking your medication is imperative, eating right is also essential in creating a high quality of life.

Eating right contributes to your mood and mental state, it gives you energy to exercise, and helps you to feel less bloated thereby making it easier for you to breathe. That being said, actually sticking to a diet that is right for you is easier said than done, but we hope one of the strategy and tactics we listed in this article can contribute to helping you get on a diet plan and stick to it!

The lungs are one of five vital organs in the human body along with the brain, heart, kidneys, and liver. Every breath you take helps to produce and distribute nutrients in the bloodstream that provide you with energy, heal your wounds, and maintain every other organ throughout the body. And while most people understand the basics of maintaining healthy lungs i.e., getting enough exercise, eating healthy foods, and not smoking, many people aren’t aware of how specific lung diseases differ from one another and how they’re diagnosed by medical professionals.

There are many lung diseases, but each one affects a different part of the respiratory process. For example, one condition may affect your physical ability to take in air while another could affect your lung’s ability to absorb oxygen from that air. While the symptoms you experience may be similar in these two situations, the way they’re diagnosed and treated could be very different.

If you’re diagnosed with a lung disease, it’s important that you’re educated about its unique characteristics because, while your doctor will provide you with medication and information regarding your disease, your body’s ability to heal will inevitably depend on the lifestyle changes you make.

In the following sections, we’re going to break down each category of lung disease to help you demystify them and eliminate any confusion you may have. Then, we’ll take a look at how exactly respiratory diseases are diagnosed by doctors. Keep in mind that if you have any questions or concerns about your respiratory health, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your pulmonologist or in one of the many online forums designed to support those suffering with respiratory disease.

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The Importance of Respiratory Health

Despite lung disease being one of the leading causes of death worldwide, many people are unaware of the role their lungs play in their overall health. While asthma and lung cancer are household names in the health world, they are far from the only conditions you should be aware of or concerned about.

Unfortunately, as we age, most things become more difficult and that includes breathing and maintaining healthy lungs. If you’ve smoked in the past or lived in a polluted area, you’re going to be at a much higher risk for a variety of different respiratory conditions so the best way to stay healthy is to get started as soon as possible with protecting your lungs.

Generally, raising awareness is a great way to stress the importance of lung health and prevent many diseases before they take hold. Simply discussing the topic with a friend and striking up a conversation on a blog, online forum, or among your friend group will get people talking and cause them to be more conscious about their lung health.

How The Lungs Work

The lungs are one piece of the respiratory system and are responsible for bringing oxygen into the body and removing carbon dioxide. The respiratory process begins when the diaphragm (the muscle between the lungs and the abdomen) contracts, expanding the lungs and causing air to flow down the windpipe to the trachea where it is divided into the bronchial tubes and into the lungs.

As air enters the lungs it’s divided into smaller air passages called bronchioles. At the ends of these bronchioles are alveoli, tiny air sacs with blood vessels and capillaries on them. The walls of the alveoli absorb oxygen where it passes into the blood. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide is released from the blood and sent out of the body when you exhale. 

Your red blood cells need oxygen to complete a process called metabolism. This is where nutrients taken from the food you eat are broken down using oxygen to create usable energy for your body. The heart then pumps this blood throughout the body reaching every organ in the body. 

Your respiratory system has a number of “defense mechanisms” that it uses to prevent irritants and harmful substances from entering the lungs and bloodstream. Tiny hairs in the nose called cilia help to prevent larger particles from entering your lungs. Additionally, mucus in the bronchial tubes and trachea help prevent viruses and bacteria from reaching the lungs. However, if these impurities do reach the lungs, they can sometimes be brought up through mucus. 

The Different Types of Respiratory Disease

The majority of lung disease in the United States are the result of smoking, infections, and genetics. They can be classified into six different categories. Each category impacts a different part of the lungs. Because each of these categories can overlap in terms of symptoms, causes, and risk factors, it’s often difficult to diagnose them without the appropriate diagnostic tests and a thorough examination of symptoms. Read on to learn more about each category of respiratory disease.

Diseases Affecting the Airways

The airways are all parts of the respiratory system that transport air from one point to another. It starts at the nose and mouth, passes through the pharynx and larynx, and into the trachea. After reaching the trachea, it passes into the left and right bronchi and then the three lobes in each lung. 

Asthma

Asthma is one of the most common respiratory diseases affecting the airways. It’s characterized by persistent inflammation and spasms that result in shortness of breath and wheezing. During an asthma attack, muscles near the airways contract and they become swollen causing the bronchial tubes to narrow. 1 in 13 people have moderate to severe asthma according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Asthma is classified into two different categories: allergic asthma (extrinsic) or non-allergic asthma (intrinsic). Allergic asthma is caused by external factors or irritants that come from outside the body such as pollution, cigarette smoke, pollen, exhaust, or airborne chemicals. Non-allergic asthma is the result of internal triggers such as bacterial and viral inflammations of the airways. Emotional or physical stress can also induce an asthma attack.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. It’s an umbrella term that includes emphysema (damage to the alveoli) and chronic bronchitis (damage to the bronchial tubes). 90 percent of instances of COPD are the result of smoking.

COPD isn't a disease that takes hold overnight; it develops gradually over years like many lung conditions. As a result, many people don't realize they have COPD until their symptoms get bad enough for them to see a doctor. Like an asthma attack, a COPD exacerbation is a sudden onset of symptoms. These symptoms include:

• Breathlessness - especially during physical activity
• Chronic cough that tends to get worse over time
• Wheezing or other breathing sounds
• Coughing up mucus (phlegm)
• Symptoms that get worse with sickness such as a cold or the flu

Acute Bronchitis

Also known as a chest cold, acute bronchitis is the temporary inflammation of the bronchi. This is usually accompanied by a fever, shortness of breath, wheezing, and excess mucus production. While acute bronchitis is not usually a huge health concern, combined with other more serious respiratory conditions, it can cause an exacerbation that could be fatal. This is why it's so important to avoid getting sick if you have any type of lung disease.

Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis differs from the above conditions in that it’s genetic. Someone with with cystic fibrosis will have difficulty clearing mucus from the airways because the disease causes it to become sticky and thick. These people typically have frequent lung infections and a chronic cough and it's often detected in childhood so it can be treated early on.

Cystic fibrosis alters a protein in the body called the cystic fibrosis transmembrane (CFTR). This protein manages the flow of salt and water in and out of cells in the body. Because the balance of salt and water is altered, mucus becomes thicker which can affect a number of systems throughout the body, especially the respiratory, digestive, reproductive systems, and sweat glands.

Diseases Affecting the Air Sacs (Alveoli)

There are millions of alveoli in the lungs. Each balloon-shaped air sac is only one cell thick and are the “endpoint” of the respiratory system where oxygen enters the bloodstream. There are a number of disorders affecting the alveoli that can result in inflammation, overdistention, or surfactant which prevents the alveoli from deflating entirely between breaths.  

Pulmonary Edema

A pulmonary edema occurs when the alveoli begin to fill with fluid preventing the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. This disease can often occur as a result of congestive heart failure and can be deadly.

In situations where pulmonary edemas are not caused by the heart, this is called noncardiogenic pulmonary edema. This results when the capillaries in the lungs become leaky or more permeable. This may happen as a result of high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a viral infection or more.

In order to prevent pulmonary edemas, you should focus on your cardiovascular health. Eat a heart-healthy diet low in salt, sugar, and solid fats, exercise regularly, and never smoke. Pulmonary edemas can be fatal so it's important that you visit a cardiologist and pulmonologist regular to monitor your heart and lung health. 

Pneumonia

This condition results when the alveoli become inflamed and infected, usually filling with pus and making it difficult to breathe. While pneumonia can range from mild to life-threatening, it's more dangerous for people with a weakened immune system or people with other health problems.

Pneumonia can be acquired from a number of sources including hospitals, long-term care facilities, or other healthcare facilities. In order to prevent pneumonia, you should get vaccinated, practice good hygiene, and keep your immune system strong by eating right and not smoking.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a contagious disease resulting from a bacteria called mycobacterium tuberculosis. This disease begins in the lungs but bacteria is known to travel to other parts of the body like the spine, brain, and kidney. People who have active tuberculosis may experience symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and coughing up blood-tinged phlegm. To some, tuberculosis is known as the "disease of poverty" because it is far more common in developing countries that are often overcrowded.

Lung Cancer

While lung cancer can occur in any part of the lungs, it occurs more frequently in or around the alveoli. Lung cancer is the most common form of cancer but it's also the most preventable with up to 90 percent of all cases being caused by smoking. While there are more than 20 different types of lung cancer, the two most common are small cell and non-small cell lung cancer. 

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

ARDS occurs when the alveoli in the lungs begin to fill with blood from surrounding blood vessels. Because ARDS leads to low blood oxygen levels and breathing failure, it can often be a fatal disease and while two thirds of ARDS patients survive, some may never fully recover from their symptoms.

Diseases Affecting the Interstitium

Between the alveoli in the lungs, there is a thin lining containing blood vessels that are responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the blood and the air sacs. This delicate layer is called the interstitium.

Diseases that affect the interstitium are classified under the umbrella term “interstitial lung disease” (ILD) and include things like autoimmune disease, sarcoidosis, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Other diseases that can affect the interstitium include pulmonary edema and pneumonia.

Diseases Affecting Blood Vessels

It’s important to remember that what affects one part of the body often has an effect on another party of the body — this is often the case with diseases affecting blood vessels. When the right side of the heart receives deoxygenated blood, it goes to the lungs through the pulmonary arteries. These arteries may become damaged by disease as well.

Pulmonary Hypertension

Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs) can result in chest pain and shortness of breath. The primary concern with pulmonary hypertension is heart failure as it puts a strain on the right ventricle of the heart.

High blood pressure usually results when capillaries and pulmonary arterioles are damaged, clogged, or narrowed in some way. When this happens, the right side of your heart will have a harder time pumping blood through the lungs. Eventually, the patient will experience heart failure.

Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

Also known as a blood clot, a PE may be pumped into the lungs resulting in low blood oxygen levels and difficulty breathing. It can also result in damage to the lungs or other organs within the body and can even be fatal. Common signs of a pulmonary embolism are a chronic cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Treatment options for PE include blood thinners, compression clothing, and physical activity.

Diseases Affecting the Pleura

The pleura is the outer lining of the lungs made up of the parietal pleura and the visceral pleura. The pleura as a whole assists the lungs as you inhale and exhale by producing a fluid that lubricates them and allows them to move easily. 

Pleural Effusion

Heart failure or pneumonia can sometimes result in what’s called a pleural effusion. This is when an excess amount of fluid builds up in the space between the chest wall and the lung. Draining the fluid can help the patient regain their breathing.

The two types of pleural effusion are exudative and transudative. Exudative pleural effusions are the result of an excess of white blood cells that have reached the pleural fluid. Cancer, infection, and inflammation are usually the cause of this type of pleural effusion. On the other hand, transudative effusion is usually caused by kidney disease, liver disease, and cardiac failure. It's usually pale and yellow in color.

Pneumothorax

Pneumothorax, also known as a collapsed lung, results when air leaks into the area between the lung and the chest wall (pleural cavity). There are a number of things that can cause pneumothorax like chest injury, lung disease, or lung procedures. Depending on how severe the event was, pneumothorax can fix it self or it may require medical attention. To treat it, doctors insert a needle or tube between the ribs and remove excess air.

Mesothelioma

This is a rare type of cancer that’s typically caused by exposure to asbestos, a fibrous mineral often used in the building and construction industry. Years of exposure can significantly damage the lungs and can be life threatening. In order to prevent mesothelioma, it's a good idea to have the air quality in your home tested regularly.

This cancer attacks mesothelial cells found in the abdominal cavity and membranes lining the chest. This forms a tissue called mesothelium which lubricates organs and prevents them from becoming damaged as they move up against one another. Peritoneal mesothelioma occurs in the abdomen while pleural mesothelioma occurs in the chest cavity.

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Diseases Affecting the Chest Wall

In order to take in as much air as possible, your lungs, diaphragm, and chest wall need to be as flexible as possible. When any one of these is obstructed it can result in difficulty breathing and other respiratory disorders.

Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome

Obesity is common and can have numerous adverse effects on the body. Extra weight on the abdomen and chest, however, can lead to serious breathing problems, especially if other respiratory diseases are involved. In most cases, respiratory patients will undergo some form of exercise in order to prevent fat from building up in the chest.

Neuromuscular Disorders

Myasthenia gravis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are two neuromuscular disorders that may affect the lungs. These conditions affect the nerves that control the muscles in your chest wall resulting in difficulty breathing. This can’t be cured but it can be managed and treated. 

Diagnostic Tests for Lung Conditions

Because so many lung conditions have overlapping symptoms, it can be difficult to diagnose them. According to WebMD, between 25 and 50 percent of people in the United States visit a doctor with a concern about shortness of breath every year. Lung diseases are by no means uncommon, but they can range in severity from mild to life-threatening.

While your doctor will likely ask you about the symptoms you’ve been having, he/she will likely have to perform some type of test to accurately diagnose your condition. A physical examination is usually where they will start along with studying your medical history. If these bring up any concerns, your doctor will have a better idea of what test to perform.  

Spirometry

If your doctor believes you are exhibiting signs of COPD, asthma, or pulmonary fibrosis, he may perform a spirometry test. These tests can also be used if you already have a lung disease in order to see how well your treatment is working.

During a spirometry test you will exhale into a tube that’s attached to a spirometry device. This will result in two measurements: forced vital capacity (FVC), the amount of air you can exhale, and forced expiratory volume (FEV), the amount you can exhale in one second.

Chest X-Rays

A chest X-ray can reveal a number of things about your pulmonary health. Because they produce images of your heart, lungs, blood vessels, and airways, your doctor will be able to see how your lungs are functioning with the rest of the body. Your doctor will be able to identify cancer, emphysema, pneumonia, collapsed lungs, and heart issues that could be affecting your lungs.

Blood Gas Tests 

This is a type of blood test used to determine your blood oxygen levels. Blood gas tests or blood gas analysis will provide your doctor with crucial information about the function of your lungs and can be used to diagnose a wide range of respiratory diseases. It will measure your oxygen saturation level, partial pressure of oxygen and carbon dioxide, bicarbonate, and arterial blood pH. If you already have a lung disease, pulse oximetry is a quick and noninvasive  way to check your blood oxygen levels. Your doctor may recommend this, especially if you are using supplemental oxygen like an oxygen tank or oxygen concentrator.

Chest CT Scan

A CT Scan is a more advanced form of X-ray allowing your doctor to see more detailed images of the chest and its internal organs. A CT scan can be used to reveal tumors and evaluate heart and lung diseases. The main benefit of a CT scan over a traditional X-ray is that it’s much easier to see subtle details in the internal organs which could be crucial for accurately diagnosing a lung diseases like pneumonia, tuberculosis, interstitial diseases, and detect inflammation of the pleura covering the lungs. 

Bronchoscopy With Biopsy

A bronchoscopy is a procedure where a thin tube with a camera on the end is inserted through the nose or mouth in order to view the airways and the lungs. The biopsy part involves taking a small amount of tissue for testing which is not always necessary depending on what your doctor is testing for. Bronchoscopies are typically used to look for blockages in the airways, diagnose shortness of breath or a chronic cough, or to follow up on a CT scan that revealed a lung infection.

Electrocardiography (EKG)

Electrocardiography is a noninvasive test that can help your doctor determine if blood flow to the heart is being impaired. During this procedure, several electrodes will be attached to your chest and monitor your heart rhythm which is displayed on a screen. This type of test can be used to diagnose lung disorders that affect the blood vessels and heart. 

How To Maintain Healthy Lungs

Respiration is one of the most important processes that your body performs and your lungs are at the center of it. Fortunately, you don’t have to leave your lung health up to chance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 39 percent of chronic lower respiratory diseases cases (the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S.) are preventable. What this means is that making healthy lifestyle choices will significantly decrease your chance of being diagnosed with a lung disease.

What’s more, many of the lifestyle changes you can make are very simple and will have far reaching effects beyond just your respiratory health. Heart health is very closely linked to lung health, so chances are, if you’re taking good care of your heart, you’re also helping your lungs. Let’s take a look at some simple things you can do to improve your health.

Avoid Airborne Pollutants

The scary thing about airborne pollutants is that we’re surrounded by them constantly, sometimes without us even knowing.

If you’ve just been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you’re probably just beginning to learn about some of the common symptoms associated with this disease. Most people — whether they’re early stage, late stage, or anywhere in between — will experience breathing difficulties, chest pain, and a chronic cough. And as it progresses, COPD patients are more likely to experience complications like hypertension, recurring respiratory infections, and heart problems.

Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to identify the root cause of COPD symptoms. For example, you might wake up one day feeling more chest pain or stiffness than usual. This could be caused by many things such as changes in environmental factors, your diet, exercise routine, or medication. If you experience an unusual or recurring symptom, be sure to take note of it and address it with your doctor during your next appointment.

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One fairly common symptom of COPD you should know about is bronchospasms. This occurs when your airways narrow, leading to difficulty breathing, chest pain, and coughing. If you’d like to learn more about bronchospasms, read on to discover what causes them, how they can affect your respiratory health, and much more. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below or reach out to us.

What are Bronchospasms?

Bronchospasms (also called bronchial spasms) result when your airways constrict making it difficult to breathe. As the name suggests, bronchospasms affect the bronchial tubes or the “bronchioles” in the lungs. These tubes are responsible for the transfer of air to and from the lungs. However, when they begin to constrict they don’t allow air to be transferred properly, often causing wheezing and chest pain. The bronchioles contain what’s called “involuntary” smooth muscle fibers. This means that you can’t consciously control these muscle functions similar to how you can’t control when your heart pumps blood.

Your ability to take oxygen-rich air into your lungs and expel carbon dioxide-rich air is imperative for your overall health and well-being. Oxygen that enters the lungs is transferred to the blood through the alveoli, tiny air sacs that scatter the lungs. From there, your blood vessels carry oxygen to every organ in your body. Oxygen is an essential resource for every organ and tissue because it breaks down food so that your body can use it as energy. When tissues or organs don’t have the oxygen they need to function properly, it is called hypoxia.

Not only do bronchospasms block air from coming into the lungs, but they can also block air from going out. This is equally problematic because your lungs need to be able to replace carbon dioxide-rich air with oxygen-rich air, otherwise carbon dioxide will begin to build up in the blood. Too much carbon dioxide in the blood is called hypercapnia and it can result in many of the same symptoms as a lack of oxygen like shortness of breath, fatigue, and dizziness.

Bronchospasms primarily occur in patients with chronic bronchitis or asthma. Chronic bronchitis is one of two chronic respiratory diseases under the umbrella term “COPD.” The other being emphysema which affects the alveoli in the lungs. While chronic bronchitis and asthma share many symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, they have different causes. Chronic bronchitis is primarily caused by cigarette smoking and asthma is mostly hereditary. Bronchospasms can also be induced by anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction) or exercise.

What Causes Bronchospasms?

There are many different causes of bronchospasms so it will be challenging to narrow down what’s causing your symptoms without speaking with your doctor. There may be one specific thing that’s causing your bronchospasms or there could be multiple things involved. Let’s take a look at some of the potential causes of these symptoms.

Air Pollution

Pollutants are one of the most common and avoidable causes of bronchospasms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are six criteria of air pollutants including particle pollution, sulfur oxides, ground-level ozone, nitrogen oxides, lead, and carbon monoxide. All of these types of pollution can lead to respiratory exacerbations including bronchospasms, chest pain, coughing, and wheezing.

The best way to avoid hazardous air pollution is by checking the air quality in your area before you go outdoors. AirNow.gov is an excellent resource for asthma and COPD patients who want to be more conscious about the quality of air they’re breathing. Simply type in your area code or city and you will be provided with a forecast of the air quality in your area. It will specify the types of pollutants that are currently present so you can plan your day accordingly. 

Air quality index (AQI) is the unit of measurement for air quality. It runs from 0 to 500 with 0 being the best air quality and 500 being the worst. Generally speaking, COPD and asthma patients should not go outside if the AQI is above 100.

Airborne Allergens

An allergen is a type of antigen that causes a severe immune response to something that would normally be harmless. Allergens can be airborne such as pollen or mold, or they can be food-based such as nuts, shellfish, or soy. If you have COPD or asthma, avoiding these triggers is imperative if you want to avoid bronchospasms and other potentially life-threatening symptoms.

There are many sites that can keep you up to date on the active allergens in your area, but Pollen.com is probably one of the most accurate and easy to use. Just like AirNow.gov, you simply have to type in your area code and you’ll have access to current information about the allergens that you should be concerned about. This is a great resource if you want to figure out what allergens affect you the most and how to avoid them.

Infections

COPD and asthma patients can have what’s called a disruption to the epithelial lining which makes them more likely to contract infections like the flu or COVID-19. Essentially, many of the immune cells in the throat and lungs become compromised due to chronic inflammation. Over time, the body loses its ability to fight off bacteria or viruses that enter the body.

Bronchiectasis is another condition that can lead to infections in COPD patients. While bronchiectasis is not caused by COPD, it is more common among COPD patients, especially in later stages of the disease. Bronchiectasis causes mucus and bacteria to build up in the lungs and prevents it from clearing properly meaning you’ll experience frequent and recurring lung infections.

Lastly, cigarette smoking will put you at a greater risk of contracting a lung infection. While many COPD patients are able to quick smoking after receiving a diagnosis, as many as 38 percent of COPD patients continue smoking. Smoking suppresses the immune system making you more likely to get sick and even causing infections to be more severe and longer-lasting. Immediate smoking cessation will help you prevent lung infection and stay healthy.

Medication

The use of certain medications can result in drug-induced bronchospasms. A few of them in particular, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are very well-known and widely used. For example, ibuprofen and aspirin are both NSAIDs.These drugs are used as painkillers to treat things like headaches, toothaches, and soreness. However, for some people with asthma, they can cause bronchospasms.

According to Healthline, NSAIDs inhibit a protein called cyclooxygenase and many asthma patients are sensitive to these effects. One possible reason for this is due to the overproduction of leukotrienes. These are chemicals that are released into the bronchial tubes and cause the bronchial muscles to constrict and spasm. To be safe, it’s best to consult with your doctor before using any type of medication, even if it is an over-the-counter medication.

How are Bronchospasms Diagnosed?

Your doctor may use a number of different methods to diagnose you with bronchospasms depending on your medical history and whether or not you’ve already been diagnosed with asthma or COPD. He/she will likely start by using a stethoscope to listen for any irregularities in your breathing. And if any are detected, you may be administered one of the following tests to determine if you have bronchospasms.

Spirometry

During a spirometry test, you will be blowing into a device called a spirometer. There are two different readings that your doctor will derive from this: forced vital capacity (FVC) which is the total amount of air you can exhale and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) which is the total volume of air you can push out of your lungs in one second.

Pulse Oximetry

If you have COPD and you’re on oxygen, you likely already know what a pulse oximeter is. It’s a small device that attaches to your finger and reads your blood oxygen level. Your doctor may use one of these devices to see if your bronchospasms are reducing the amount of oxygen that is making it into your blood.

Arterial Blood Gas Analysis

Arterial blood gas tests are similar to pulse oximetry but they are more invasive by requiring you to draw blood. They also provide your doctor with a lot more information about your blood composition which can assist in diagnosing bronchospasms and other respiratory problems.

Eucapnic Voluntary Hyperventilation (EVH) Test

This is a type of test that attempts to simulate the effects of prolonged exercise. In other words, it allows your doctor to understand how your lungs and airways react when you are at a point of physical exertion. This test can take between 60 and 90 minutes to complete but it can be convenient in diagnosing bronchial spasms.

How Are Bronchospasms Treated?

Bronchospasms can be treated with a combination of home remedies and treatment methods prescribed by your doctor. Below are just a few of the ways your doctor may treat these respiratory symptoms.

Short-Acting Bronchodilators

Short-acting bronchodilators are used in asthma and COPD patients to provide quick relief from respiratory symptoms. They work by opening up the airways when you’re faced with severe breathing problems, chest pain, or coughing. Short-acting bronchodilators are taken with either an inhaler or a nebulizer so that the medication reaches the lungs faster.

Long-Acting Bronchodilators

If your bronchospasms are less severe, your doctor may prescribe you long-acting bronchodilators. These medications will take much longer to start working but they will also provide a much longer period of relief. Long-acting bronchodilators are typically administered orally.

Corticosteroids

If your bronchospasms were induced by an allergic reaction, your doctor may advise corticosteroids. These types of steroids will reduce inflammation in the airways and suppress the immune system which could be causing them to constrict. He/she may use any combination of the above treatment options to help you cure your bronchospasms.

What Can Be Done to Prevent Bronchospasms?

Since bronchospasms put you at a higher risk of experiencing severe complications from COPD, it’s important to do what you can to prevent them. For most people, preventing bronchospasms simply means following the treatment plan that your doctor has already created for you. If you believe that you aren’t doing enough to prevent them, consult with your doctor for more information.

Oxygen Therapy

Supplemental oxygen therapy is one of the foundational treatments for COPD and it can also help you prevent bronchospasms. The goal of oxygen therapy is to maintain a healthy blood oxygen level in your body when your lungs aren’t able to do so on their own. For some patients, this could mean using oxygen intermittently, but for others, it could mean using oxygen 24/7. Your doctor will help you decide what’s best for you.

We recommend using a portable oxygen concentrator such as the Caire FreeStyle Comfort or the Inogen One G5 because these units are lightweight and allow you to take your oxygen supply anywhere in the world with ease. They’re also extremely reliable, so you don’t have to worry about losing access to your oxygen when you need it the most.

Exercising Safely

Exercise is a fundamental aspect of any COPD treatment routine. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is used to increase the strength and efficiency of the lungs while helping COPD patients maintain their weight and promote healthy circulation. However, if you exercise too much or you don’t exercise in a way that’s advised by your doctor, you might experience exercise-induced bronchospasms (EIB).

To avoid exercise-induced bronchospasms, be sure to avoid exercising in the cold. Cold, dry air can cause your mucus to become thick and difficult to clear. Air that’s filled with pollen or other allergens can also irritate your airways causing bronchospasms. Lastly, you should be careful not to overexercise. High-intensity exercise is not typically recommended for treating COPD and it can put you at a higher risk for experiencing exacerbations or other serious complications. Stick to a moderate, but consistent exercise routine.

Diet

Your dietary habits can make the difference between a healthy and unhealthy respiratory system. As aforementioned, consuming food that you’re allergic to can exacerbate your respiratory symptoms and cause bronchospasms. COPD patients tend to retain sodium, so you should avoid food with added salt and drink plenty of water. Being well-hydrated means your mucus will be less viscous and easier to clear from your airways. Foods to avoid include coffee, sugary drinks, fried foods, and milk.  

Another thing to be wary of is dietary supplements. While dietary supplements are often hyped-up through advertising and word of mouth, they have negative side-effects just like over-the-counter and prescription drugs. The problem is that dietary supplements are registered as “food products” through the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) so companies can often get away with overexaggerating the benefits of their supplements without discussing the potential side-effects.

Conclusion

Bronchospasms are a common symptom of COPD and asthma, but under certain circumstances, they can also occur in healthy people. Severe allergic reactions, air pollution, and medications can all cause bronchospasms and they can range in severity from moderate to life-threatening. While there are several home remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms of bronchospasms, your best bet will be to speak with your doctor as soon as possible.

In the meantime, your best course of action is to follow your COPD treatment plan. Using supplemental oxygen as prescribed, following a strict diet, and maintaining a healthy and consistent exercise routine will all promote healthy lungs and airways, thus helping you to prevent bronchospasms and other respiratory complications. You should also take the time to check the air quality in your area before going outside so that you can avoid air pollution.

Here at LPT Medical, our goal is to provide as many COPD patients as possible with durable and reliable portable oxygen concentrators. With a portable oxygen concentrator at your side, you’ll have the freedom to go about your daily life without having to worry about not having medical oxygen that meets your respiratory needs. If you need help choosing an oxygen concentrator, please feel free to give us a call at 1-888-416-3855.  

Most people don’t put a lot of thought into the way that they get around. As humans, we learn to walk from a very young age and we use our basic motor skills all the time. So, for most people, it’s difficult to imagine being in a situation where these basic functions are impaired. However, for someone with COPD, problems with mobility, balance, and coordination can be a daily struggle. Healthy, functioning lungs are essential for physical exertion, no matter how little it may be.

A study on pubmed.gov followed COPD patients over the course of six months and found that about one-third of them experienced a fall at some point. The same study also states that COPD is one of the chronic conditions with the highest fall rates, right behind osteoarthritis, a very common degenerative joint disease that’s caused by the wearing down of cartilage on the bones.  

Unfortunately, the high risk of falls in COPD patients is very much an under-discussed topic. That’s why, in this article, we’ll take a look at the main causes of falls and how you can avoid them. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in the comment section below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

What Causes Balance Issues in COPD Patients?

COPD balance and coordination issues aren’t limited to one cause. There are many different factors that need to be considered in order to pinpoint and mitigate your risk of experiencing a fall. Comorbidities, age, COPD stage, and environmental factors can all play a role, so it’s important to be open-minded about possible prevention methods.

Low Blood Oxygen Levels

Oxygen is a vital resource for your body. It’s used to break down stored energy that you get from food and convert it into usable energy for every cell in your body. Since COPD patients have impaired lung function due to excessive inflammation, medical oxygen can be used to lessen the load on the lungs and ensure that your blood oxygen levels stay within a normal range. Contrary to what many people believe, there are no “side-effects” of medical oxygen. As long as you’re using it as prescribed, medical oxygen will only benefit you.

When it comes time to buy an oxygen device, you’ll have several options. Oxygen tanks, liquid oxygen tanks, and oxygen concentrators are all popular options. However, portable oxygen concentrators will be the best option for most oxygen patients because they’re lightweight, small, and easy to carry as you go about your day. The Inogen One G5 and Caire FreeStyle Comfort, for example, are two of the most popular options because they have a high oxygen output, and they both weigh under 5 pounds.

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Another great option if you have higher oxygen demands is the Respironics SimplyGo. This is the lightest continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator and it offers up to 2 liters per minute (LPM) of oxygen. The Respironics SimplyGo can either be carried on your shoulder with the adjustable strap, or it can be wheeled behind you using the rolling cart. Be sure to speak with one of our respiratory specialists here at LPT Medical to learn which portable oxygen concentrator is right for you.

Peripheral Edema

"Edema” is a term that refers to swelling, usually due to the buildup of fluid. Peripheral edema occurs when fluid begins to accumulate in an extremity away from the heart such as the hands, feet, or legs. While this condition can happen to anyone, it’s more common among COPD patients and it can be a warning sign of several serious medical conditions including pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs) and cor pulmonale (right-sided heart failure).

Another problem that can be caused by edema is problems with balance and coordination. This condition often develops slowly and without the patient knowing, so you might start losing control of your balance without knowing it as well. Oftentimes, people first notice that there’s a problem when their shoes or clothing don’t fit anymore. In order to avoid this situation, check your legs and feet daily for swelling, redness, or pitting. This is when you press your skin and it leaves an indentation. 

Malnutrition

COPD patients are more likely to experience malnutrition than the general public. There are many possible reasons for this, but a loss of appetite, changing food preferences, and problems with digestion are among the most common causes. COPD patients often find themselves in a difficult situation where they’re hungry but aren’t in the mood to eat because it can leave them feeling bloated and exhausted.

One significant concern is something called muscle atrophy (muscle wasting). Many people are under the impression that they’re losing fat, but it’s actually muscle weight that they’re losing. Inevitably, this can lead to problems with balance, coordination, and exercise tolerance. This is why it’s so important for COPD patients to consume enough protein. Today’s Dietician recommends you get at least 20 percent of your calories from protein.

Medication Side-Effects

Every medication has side-effects, including those used to treat COPD. One of the most common inhaled COPD medications, bronchodilators, are used to open up the airways helping you to breathe easier. However, bronchodilators have a number of adverse side-effects including but not limited to trembling, muscle cramps, and nausea, all of which can contribute to balance problems and even result in serious falls.

Just like with oxygen, it’s important to use medication only as it’s prescribed by your doctor. What’s more, you should be cautious about the way you use it. For example, if you’re using a bronchodilator, try sitting down beforehand. This way, if you start feeling dizzy or lightheaded, you won’t run the risk of falling down. Bronchodilators are fast-acting, so if you feel okay after a couple of minutes, you can stand up and go about your business.

Corticosteroids are another popular medication used to treat COPD. These are a type of steroid that is used for the long-term treatment of COPD and asthma, and they help to reduce inflammation and tightening in the airways and lungs. However, corticosteroids used in large doses can contribute to bone deterioration and the development of osteoporosis. This condition not only increases your risk of falls, but it also increases your risk of experiencing bone fractures after falling.  

Sedentary Lifestyle

Living a “sedentary lifestyle” means not getting up and moving around very often. Many people become more sedentary the older they get and developing a chronic condition like COPD can cause someone to become sedentary as well. The problem with this is that it can lead to a lot of health issues, one of which is an increased likelihood of experiencing a fall. This study found that physical activity is associated with better balance and slowing the rate of physical deterioration in older adults.

Environmental Factors

All of the issues above are caused by the symptoms of COPD and COPD treatment. But you also need to consider how your environment is contributing to your risk of falls. Living in a home that is cluttered or not designed to accommodate someone with a chronic respiratory disease can put you at a higher risk of falling.

Since it’s winter, there are also environmental factors related to the weather. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 56 percent of all falls occur outside the home such as in the yard, on the sidewalk, or in a public area. So before you go anywhere, you should consider what obstacles will be presented and how you can navigate them safely without experiencing a fall. 

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What Can Be Done to Prevent Falls With COPD?

Although falls are very common in COPD patients, the good news is that they’re highly preventable. Just a few small adjustments to your lifestyle could make a huge difference but you need to know what’s causing them in the first place. 

Carry a Pulse Oximeter

A pulse oximeter is a small electronic device that slips over your finger and tells you your blood oxygen levels. It is a non-invasive device, meaning you won’t need to draw blood in order to use it. It works by passing light through your finger and calculating your blood oxygen levels based on the amount of light that’s absorbed by oxygenated or deoxygenated blood. Pulse oximeters are lightweight and portable medical devices.

The reason it’s so important to have a pulse oximeter is to be able to check your blood oxygen levels and heart rate, especially when you’re away from home. Just a quick pulse oximeter reading and you’ll know exactly what adjustments you need to make to your oxygen therapy device. Pulse oximeters are usually recommended over arterial blood gas analysis (ABG) because they’re less intrusive and you receive your results almost instantaneously. The quality of the device matters too, so be sure to spend some time looking for a pulse oximeter with good reviews. 

ABG analysis and pulse oximetry also differ in terms of the information they provide. While a pulse oximeter just reads the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is saturated with oxygen (SpO2), ABG tests will provide you with a whole host of information including blood alkalinity, the partial pressure of CO2 and oxygen (PaCO2 and PaO2), and much more. This information is useful for other reasons, but it’s not necessary if you’re just trying to maintain your blood oxygen levels.

Carry a Medical Alert System

A medical alert system or personal emergency response system (PERS) is a small device that’s worn around your neck or on your wrist. If you ever experience an emergency like a fall or a COPD exacerbation, simply press the button on the device and a notification will be sent to a 24/7 call center. Once the notification is received they will call 911 and emergency medical personnel will be sent to your home immediately.

Adjust Your Eating Habits

As aforementioned, many COPD patients are underweight. As respiratory symptoms get worse, many people find it difficult to eat a full meal without feeling bloated and tired. One of the best ways to deal with this is to spread your meals throughout the day rather than having one or two bigger meals. This will give your body lots of time to digest rather than having to do it all at once.

Another reason to spread your meals out is that it helps you avoid the temptation to eat unhealthy foods. When you’re feeling hungry and lacking energy, you’re more likely to give in to foods that will provide you with a quick energy boost. These foods are usually high in sugar and other unhealthy ingredients which can exacerbate COPD symptoms and leave you feeling drained.

Get Active

Many people are under the impression that the sole purpose of pulmonary rehabilitation is to improve lung function. And while that may be the most important reason, it’s not the only reason. Even a moderate form of exercise can provide some major benefits as long as it’s done consistently. According to the Mayo Clinic, regular exercise helps prevent a whole host of health problems, including but not limited to high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, depression, and heart disease. 

Another reason for COPD patients to exercise is that it increases their muscle tone, thus increasing their oxygen efficiency. As a COPD patient, you want every muscle in your body to be strong not only to improve balance and posture but to reduce the amount of oxygen required for getting around. Exercise also improves blood circulation which is very important for maintaining your mobility.

Create a Safe Living Space

No matter whether you live alone or with friends or family, making adjustments to your living space can go a long way towards preventing falls. Keeping your home organized and free of debris will give you fewer obstacles to trip over or navigate around as you go about your daily life. Many falls occur in the bathroom, so that might be the best place to start with. Another way to create a safe living space is to install mobility aids such as hand railings, stairlifts, or ramps.  

Address Your Concerns With Your Doctor

Anxiety is associated with an increased risk of falls, so if you have concerns about balance or coordination issues caused by COPD or your COPD treatment plan, you should address them with your doctor immediately. Chances are, the feelings you’re experiencing are perfectly normal and your doctor might be able to make changes to your medication, exercise, or diet plan in order to improve your balance. As the saying goes, there’s no such thing as a “stupid question” especially when your health is concerned. 

Conclusion

Although COPD is a leading morbidity in the United States, many people are not fully aware of what it’s like to live with this disease. Balance and coordination issues are pervasive among COPD patients and they become more prevalent with age and as the disease progresses. The tips outlined above will help you mitigate the risks of falls.

Here at LPT medical, we want you to be educated about your disease so that you can make the best decisions for your long-term health. We carry a wide range of portable oxygen concentrators from popular brands like Caire Inc., Inogen, and Respironics. And we take pride in providing oxygen patients all over the country with reliable lightweight devices that help them get around more easily while limiting the risk of a fall.

If you’re interested in our portable oxygen concentrators for sale, please reach out to us either by phone or by email. 

Managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can feel like a balancing act a lot of the time. On one hand, you want to do everything you can to reduce the symptoms and prevent the progression of your disease. However, on the other hand, you don’t want to use any treatments that could cause serious side-effects. It’s not always easy to find a balance between these two things and create a routine that works for you.

This has never been more true than with home remedies. Simply put, a home remedy is an easy and accessible treatment option for an ailment that you can do at home. Home remedies are not prescribed by a doctor and they typically have more anecdotal evidence to prove their efficacy than hard scientific fact. What’s more, home remedies aren’t always focused on treating a specific disease like COPD. Instead, they could be focused on improving your health in general which, in turn, could help you treat your COPD.

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Rather than taking a risk with home remedies you may find on social media or elsewhere on the internet, we’re going to outline some COPD home remedies that are proven to be safe and effective. Just remember that home remedies should never be put before the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor including but not limited to supplemental oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and an improved diet. As always, if you have any questions about what you read here, don’t hesitate to leave a comment and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Dietary Supplements

Dietary supplements are commonly misunderstood in today’s world. Many people are under the impression that dietary supplements can replace a healthy diet and others are convinced that dietary supplements do nothing at all. However, the truth is somewhere between these two points of view. Supplements can potentially enhance your diet, but there are also a few things you need to be aware of in order to use them safely.

Dietary supplements are not considered “medication” by any means. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies them as a “food product.” The good news is that this means they are widely available and you won’t need a prescription in order to buy them. But the bad news is that supplements are not regulated the same way as medication. It also means you’ll have to do your due diligence and research supplements, as well as the company selling them before you make any commitments.

Vitamin D Supplements

It’s a well-known fact that many people develop vitamin D deficiency after contracting COPD. According to the National Emphysema Foundation, over half of all COPD patients develop vitamin D deficiency because they consume fewer foods that are high in vitamin D and they are less likely to spend time outside in the sunlight which is a major source of vitamin D for many healthy people.

The main problem associated with vitamin D deficiency is osteoporosis, a condition where the bones become weak and brittle. Vitamin D plays an important role in the absorption of calcium which gives the bones their structure and strength. Vitamin D also plays an important role in the growth and function of muscles which is also very important for COPD patients.

Ginseng

Ginseng has a long history of use in Chinese medicine. It’s an herb that’s believed to improve pulmonary function as well as respiratory endurance. It’s known for both its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects as well as being able to regulate blood sugar levels. While the benefits of ginseng look promising, it’s important to discuss with your doctor before using it because it’s known to interfere with certain COPD medications.

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)

This is an antioxidant supplement that’s shown potential when it comes to thinning mucus, reducing phlegm, and clearing the airways. Like ginseng, NAC is a widely available supplement that can be bought without a prescription. However, it is also known to interfere with certain medications, so it’s important to consult with your doctor before using it to treat your COPD.  

Smoking Cessation

The vast majority of people who have COPD have smoked in the past and about 38 percent of current COPD patients are also smokers. Many people believe that, since they’ve already contracted COPD, there is no reason to put in the effort to quit smoking. But this could not be farther from the truth. The main reason to quit smoking is to slow the progression of COPD, but there are a whole host of other reasons as well.

Smoking increases your risk of conditions like heart disease, heart attack, diabetes, and more. What’s more, current evidence suggests that smoking is associated with increased severity of disease and a higher likelihood of death in COVID-19 patients. Smokers are known for having impaired immune systems which could also put you at a higher risk of contracting respiratory infections.

While there are many prescription medications you can use to quit smoking such as Chantix or Zyban, there are also many natural methods for quitting smoking. One thing you should know about smoking and other types of addictions is that you need it in order to feel normal. If you’re deprived of it for too long, you will likely start to experience feelings of withdrawal. When this happens, you’ll experience intense cravings, along with headaches and a change of mood. This is when you’re most likely to fall back into your smoking habits.

In order to avoid these intense feelings, you may have to slowly wean yourself off cigarettes or use a common technique like nicotine replacement therapy. Unfortunately, many smokers feel like they’re up against impossible odds when it comes to smoking cessation. Maybe you’ve seen others around you fail at losing cigarettes or you just don’t feel like you have it in you. But the truth is, it takes many attempts to quit smoking. This study suggests that it could take anywhere between 8 and 14 attempts to drop a smoking habit for good. 

Cleaning Your Home

For most people, cleaning the house is a chore. But for someone with COPD, it can be a lifesaver. There are two reasons you should clean your home on a daily basis: first and foremost, it helps to eliminate airborne allergens and bacteria from your home, and secondly, cleaning is a therapeutic activity that helps you feel accomplished and whole. When your living environment becomes messy or dirty, you’re far more likely to experience issues like anxiety and depression.

Before you start cleaning, you need to make sure you’re using safe cleaning products that don’t contain dangerous chemicals that could exacerbate your respiratory problems. Unfortunately, the cleaning product industry is rife with hazardous chemicals that, if inhaled, can lead to coughing, wheezing, chest pain, shortness of breath, and even permanent lung damage. In COPD patients, inhaled chemicals can even cause severe exacerbations.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are some of the most common hazardous materials you should keep an eye out for. Some common personal and home care items that include VOCs are:

• Disinfectants and cleaners
• Pesticides
• Air fresheners
• Deodorant and cosmetics
• And fuel

Other hazardous things in cleaning products include bleach, ammonia, ethylene glycol, monobutyl acetate, sodium hypochlorite, and trisodium phosphate. If at all possible, you should entirely avoid using cleaning products with these chemicals in them. However, if you absolutely have to use them, you should ensure that the room is well-ventilated, you should always wear a mask, and avoid getting the cleaning product on your hands or near your eyes or mouth. Refer to the Cleveland Clinic for more information on cleaning safely if you have COPD. 

Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises may seem silly to someone who has never tried them. However, the more you look into them, the more you begin to realize the bad breathing habits people develop over the course of their life. As a society, we spend more time sitting and remaining sedentary than ever before. This has caused many people to develop a shallow, ineffective breathing method that can be dangerous for someone with COPD or other respiratory conditions.

Breathing exercises are very easy to practice in the comfort of your own home and they are the perfect thing to incorporate into your daily routine. Not only will breathing exercises help you correct bad breathing habits, but they will also teach you how to reduce and manage anxiety more effectively.

One of the worst habits for COPD patients to develop is chest breathing. This type of breathing is focused on using the chest muscles in order to expand the lungs which can be exhausting with inflamed and obstructed lungs. Chest breathing should be replaced with diaphragmatic deep breathing which is focused on using the diaphragm, the thin sheet of muscle above the stomach to expand the lungs.

Anxiety Management

Cleaning regularly and practicing breathing techniques are both great ways to reduce anxiety, but they aren’t the only ones. The tricky thing about anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders is that they can be triggered by just about anything. Some people may experience anxiety about their health whereas other people may experience anxiety for reasons that are purely biological.

The first step to preventing anxiety is to simply follow your treatment plan as closely as possible. Your treatment plan is designed with your long-term well-being in mind and that includes your mental health. Things like exercise and a healthy diet will help with full-body wellness and they’re always the first things you should commit to if you want to feel happier and more motivated. If you’ve tried all of this and you’re still experiencing anxiety, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the best alternative. 

Weight Management

COPD is commonly linked with weight loss. Due to the increased energy that it takes to breathe with COPD, a changing immune system, and other factors like a loss of appetite, many COPD patients find themselves losing an unhealthy amount of weight. Oftentimes, this weight can be muscle mass rather than fat which is the most dangerous part about it. Your body needs muscle strength in order to breathe and get around more efficiently, so it’s very important to keep a healthy weight with COPD. 

Weight management is something that can be done at home. Your doctor has likely set you up with a new diet plan that includes high protein, fiber, and healthy fats. You should follow this plan as closely as possible. What’s more, you should eat regularly throughout the day instead of eating one or two big meals each day. This will prevent you from feeling exhausted or bloated after eating and keep your energy levels stable throughout the day.

The second thing you should be aware of is your exercise routine. Pulmonary rehabilitation isn’t just designed to keep your lungs strong, it’s also important for helping you manage your weight by keeping fat off and muscle on. Like your diet, the most critical thing with pulmonary rehab is consistency so try to incorporate fitness into your daily routine.

Healthy Sleep Habits

Your sleep/wake cycle doesn’t just affect your alertness throughout the day, it also affects your energy levels and your ability to take on the challenges that COPD presents. For example, someone with a healthy sleep schedule will have a better mental attitude and a better willingness to make lifestyle changes that will positively impact their respiratory health. A poor sleep schedule can also contribute to anxiety which can further exacerbate COPD.

The key to a healthy sleep schedule is consistency. Adults should be getting between 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night and your sleep schedule shouldn’t vary night-to-night. Try to get to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Doctors also recommend avoiding naps throughout the day, getting plenty of exercise, and avoiding using electronics before you go to bed.

If you’re concerned that you’re losing sleep at night due to low oxygen levels, you may want to speak with your doctor about using supplemental oxygen therapy while you sleep. You are likely already on some form of oxygen therapy, but using an oxygen concentrator while you sleep will ensure that your blood oxygen levels remain stable throughout the night. Portable oxygen concentrators like the Caire FreeStyle Comfort or the Inogen One G5 are great options because they’re small, quiet, and can be plugged into any wall outlet meaning they’ll never turn off on you in the middle of the night. 

If you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and need to use a CPAP or BiPAP machine while you sleep, you will need to use a continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator like the Respironics SimplyGo. This concentrator is designed to put out a constant stream of oxygen, so if your breathing is interrupted for any reason while you sleep, you can rest assured that you’ll still be receiving medical-grade oxygen.   

Conclusion

When it comes to treating COPD, you need a comprehensive approach that takes into consideration all facets of your life from your sleep schedule to your mental well-being. Home remedies are a great way to make you more conscious about how your lifestyle is affecting your health and what steps you can take to reverse these issues.

At the same time, however, you need to be careful about what home remedies you use. Some people will make unfounded claims about dietary supplements or other remedies which can actually make your symptoms worse. This is why you should always consult your doctor before using a new product or making drastic changes to your lifestyle.

Above all, you should be focusing on the treatment plan that you’ve created with your doctor. Doing so will help you alleviate breathlessness, chest pain, and coughing associated with COPD and you can expect to see a better prognosis for your disease.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe one of two different respiratory ailments: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The former is characterized by swelling and inflammation of the bronchial tubes and the latter is characterized by damaged alveoli, the small air sacs in the lungs that are responsible for the transmission of oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the blood.

When COPD is diagnosed, patients aren’t simply given a “one-size-fits-all” treatment plan. Instead, doctors will look at several different variables such as how developed the COPD is, where it’s located, and what caused it. By doing so, he/she will be able to create a treatment plan that is customized to your specific condition.

In this post, we’re going to be looking at the early stages of COPD. This is commonly referred to by medical professionals as “stage 1 COPD” because it’s when the signs of COPD first start to emerge. If you’re diagnosed during this stage, there are several things you should know, so stay tuned to find out, and be sure to get in touch with us if you have any questions.

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Symptoms of Early-Stage COPD

1.) You’re Not Alone

Did you know that about 16.4 million people in the United States have COPD and an estimated 328 million people have COPD worldwide? While it’s easy to feel alone when you’re diagnosed, in reality, it’s one of the most prevalent health conditions in the world ahead of lung cancer, diabetes mellitus, and even Alzheimer’s disease. 

Unfortunately, most COPD patients don’t get this impression from watching the news, reading the paper, or simply going about their daily lives. Despite how common COPD is, it sorely under-discussed and underfunded. What’s more, there seems to be a general lack of understanding of what COPD even is.

According to the National Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Experience (COPDE) Survey, 60 percent of respondents reported not having an action plan for dealing with exacerbations and 16 percent reported not even knowing what a COPD exacerbation was. Another study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that only about 50 percent of current or previous smokers surveyed knew what COPD was. 

It’s difficult to say why COPD has less awareness in the general population and among smokers than other lung diseases, but there are definitely some likely causes. For starters, cancer often takes the spotlight these days. Cancer is one of the most talked-about chronic illnesses in this day and age. It’s the second-leading cause of death in the country, but only about one-fourth of the total cancer deaths are caused by lung cancer. This could lead to people unknowingly inflating the prevalence of lung cancer.

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Another potential cause of the lack of awareness for COPD is the way it develops. While COPD tends to develop very slowly over the course of many years, lung cancer is often the opposite. Lung cancer is often considered to be one of the fastest-growing cancers and small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients, in particular, often die after just 5 years. Another problem with lung cancer is its tendency to spread to other parts of the body.

Finally, you need to consider the fact that COPD is often affected by diagnostic error. In other words, someone may have COPD and not know it, or they might visit a doctor for their symptoms and get diagnosed with a condition other than COPD such as asthma or pulmonary fibrosis. Studies suggest that about one-fifth of smokers over the age of 40 show signs of COPD, but millions of them do not receive a diagnosis.   

When you take all of these factors into consideration, along with the fact that lung cancer and COPD share the same awareness month (November), it’s not hard to see how COPD can often be overshadowed. It’s important to not diminish the awareness surrounding lung cancer because it is a very serious disease, however, it’s also important for COPD patients to know how common their illness is. What’s more, errors in spirometry testing can also lead to misdiagnosis of COPD.

2.) There is an Active COPD Support Community

Now that you’re aware of how common COPD is, you’re likely wondering what options you’ll have to get involved in the community. Luckily, there are a whole host of COPD communities out there composed of COPD patients, caretakers, researchers, medical specialists, medical device manufacturers, and more. And with how connected modern technology is, you’ll be surprised to find just how easy it is to get started.

We made a blog post in the past that covers this topic in detail, however, we’ll summarize its points here for your convenience. In simple terms, a COPD community is a place for people with COPD to come together to support each other and raise awareness for the problems they face. COPD communities can either be organized by an individual like a patient or a caretaker, or they can be created by an organization.

For example, the COPD Foundation created an online COPD forum called COPD360 Social. This forum is designed to connect and foster communication between COPD patients, healthcare professionals, caretakers, academic institutions, and researchers in order to aid in COPD prevention and management. Like other forums on the internet, COPD360 Social has a badge system that allows you to upvote a user’s responses. This way, the community decides which users are the most helpful and trusted. In order to make this platform accessible to people all across the world, it’s 100% free to use.

Another COPD organization that offers an online community is the American Lung Association. While the ALA puts a lot of their focus on lung cancer and creating cleaner air for future generations, they also host an online forum similar to the one offered by the COPD Foundation. The forum is accessed through Inspire.com. One of it’s best features is that it has a mobile application meaning you can access it via your phone or tablet from anywhere in the world. 

One final COPD organization you should be aware of if you’ve just been diagnosed with early-stage COPD is COPD.net. This forum is hosted by Health Union, a social media platform designed to leverage technology to create more productive, impactful, and meaningful conversations between people with chronic illnesses. When you subscribe to COPD.net’s Help Center, you’ll receive weekly surveys and research opportunities, an e-newsletter, and you’ll be given access to the Q&A tool online.

Another great way to get involved is through social media sites. Facebook, for example, has a feature called “groups” that can be created or joined by any user. These groups are designed to bring people together to discuss specific topics and there are hundreds of them that discuss respiratory illness, smoking cessation, and other topics relevant to COPD patients. Getting started is easy. Simply go up to the search bar and type in the topic that interests you. Then click on “groups” and it will display a list of results. You can then join any group you want and begin conversing with other likeminded people.

Becoming involved in the community is extremely important for COPD patients, no matter what stage of their lives they’re in. A study published in PubMed, a public access journal, found that — regardless of the severity of COPD — most patients feel a strong desire to feel involved in social gatherings like holidays, one-on-one communication, or social media interactions. In other words, being engaged rather than simply participating gave them more of a sense of purpose in their daily lives. 

3.) COPD Can’t Be Reversed, But it Can be Treated

One thing many people do when they’re first diagnosed with COPD is they immediately start searching for a cure. Unfortunately, COPD is not like an infection that can be cured with antibiotics and it’s not like a headache that will go away with time. COPD is permanent and it’s progressive meaning it can only get worse.

While this may seem like a pretty grim reality, it’s actually not! If you’re careful to implement effective lifestyle changes you’ll be able to drastically slow the progression of your disease, reduce respiratory symptoms, and experience peace of mind. But in order to make these changes, you need to know a little about COPD and what causes it.

COPD is the result of chronic inflammation in the lungs and airways. 85 to 90 percent of COPD cases are the result of cigarette smoking, but there is also a condition called Alpha-1 deficiency that leads to the onset of COPD in non-smokers. Alpha-1 is a protein that regulates immune reactions in the lungs, and when it’s not produced in high enough quantities, it can make your lungs vulnerable to permanent damage.

Over time, this inflammation becomes worse and further impairs your breathing so it’s imperative that you avoid anything that could irritate it such as cigarette smoke, car exhaust, or any other type of air pollution. It’s also important to avoid infection because this is the leading cause of COPD exacerbations (when symptoms rapidly get worse).

Supplemental oxygen therapy is one of the best ways to stabilize your condition, reduce respiratory symptoms, and improve your life expectancy. In the past, COPD patients would need to carry around bulky oxygen tanks, but portable oxygen concentrators have since replaced them as a lightweight and more convenient alternative.

Another key component of a COPD treatment plan is pulmonary rehabilitation. This is similar to how you would go through a physical therapy course if you sustained an injury to your legs or back but it focuses on the lungs. Not only will pulmonary rehab show you how to exercise effectively with COPD, but you will learn important lessons about how your lungs function and how to keep them healthy.  

Last but certainly not least is the dietary component of your treatment plan. While it may not seem like your diet would have an immense impact on COPD progression, it actually does. Evidence suggests that antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables have anti-inflammatory properties that have positive effects on people with COPD and asthma. Similar studies also found that soluble fiber intake has the potential to protect against airways inflammation.

Conversely, foods that lead to weight gain, obesity, and fatigue can all add to your COPD symptoms. Studies have found that obesity can lead to alterations in immune function, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia (an abnormal amount of lipids in the blood). However, being underweight with COPD has its problems as well, so a healthy weight should be your goal.

Supplemental oxygen, pulmonary rehab, and diet are a few, but not the only methods of treating COPD. Above all, you should be open and honest with your doctor about your symptoms so that he/she can create a treatment plan that’s based on your needs.  

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4.) It’s the Best Time to Quit Smoking

If you haven’t done so already, now is the perfect time to quit smoking. As aforementioned, 85 to 90 percent of COPD cases are caused by smoking but it’s also important to remember that the majority of people who smoke are never diagnosed with COPD. Rather, they develop other chronic diseases such as lung cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. According to the Cleveland Clinic, smokers have a 70 percent higher risk of dying from coronary artery disease than nonsmokers.

Since smoking causes COPD, it can also make COPD symptoms worse by increasing the rate of inflammation in the lungs and airways. Smoking is known as an immunosuppressant drug meaning it reduces your body’s ability to prevent infection temporarily. Since infection is the leading cause of COPD exacerbation and we’re in the middle of a pandemic, smoking is the last thing you want to do!

5.) It’s the Best Time To Implement Long-Term Goals

Many people go their whole lives without implementing long-term goals. This can be very detrimental if you want to achieve your full potential, especially when it comes to your health. Whether you’ve been a long-term planner before or you’ve always stuck to short-term goals, there’s never been a better time to start.

As we’ve already established, smoking cessation should be your first goal, but ideally, this should be a short-term goal because immediate cessation is will help you better achieve your long-term goals. But aside from this, your first goal should be to create a COPD action plan and implement it successfully. 

A COPD action plan is a personalized plan for managing your symptoms and exacerbations. For example, it could remind you how much you need to exercise each day or what foods you need to avoid in order to prevent respiratory flare-ups. We made a whole blog post about this subject so don’t hesitate to check it out.

6.) It’s Not the End

The last, but probably most important thing you should know about early-stage COPD is that it does not signify “the end” of your life. Not only that, but it is not even the beginning of the end. While being diagnosed with COPD is certainly not a positive experience, it is possible to achieve a positive outlook by changing your mindset and practicing healthy habits.

One positive thing to focus on is that COPD patients enjoy a far greater life expectancy than people with other chronic diseases. On average, a current smoker with stage 1 COPD has a life expectancy of 14 years. Compare this to the 50 percent of heart disease patients who live past 5 years or the 16 to 24-month median survival rate for small-cell lung cancer patients. 

But it’s not just about survival rate, it’s also about quality of life. COPD patients who implement effective and proven treatment strategies like supplemental oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and an improved diet see improved quality of life. 

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Final Thoughts

COPD is a serious debilitating disease, but it is by no means the final straw. Even if you have been diagnosed with early-stage COPD, you have a lot of life to live and it can be enhanced by closely adhering to your doctor’s instructions.

In the meantime, getting involved in the COPD community, taking care of your mental health, and quitting smoking are all important steps to take after you receive a diagnosis. Doing so will ensure that you live a long, happy, and fulfilling life.