If you were to honestly ask yourself: What stops me from exercising? And your answer is that your COPD makes it too hard for you to breath, this article is for you!

If you have COPD, symptoms like difficulty breathing and muscle fatigue are most likely the main reasons you avoid from working out or beginning an exercise program in the first place. This is unfortunate because the best way to improve exercise tolerance and decrease breathlessness in COPD is to be active.

If you do not already know this, doing something active everyday is one of the best ways to treat COPD, and reduce your experience with symptoms while also slowing down the progression of your COPD, thereby adding years to your life.

If you're finding it difficult to exercise with COPD, try accomplishing some of these methods in this article to help improve your endurance and boost your energy levels, improving your well-being overall.

Talk to Your Doctor

Before getting into a new workout regime, speak with your doctor about exercise and your COPD.

It is important to review your health status and go over the specifics of your medications with your doctor. After this, your doctor may also suggest you take an exercise tolerance test (ETT). This test will measure your endurance and your overall ability to exercise.

Based on the results of your ETT your doctor should be able to help you organize an exercise program. This personalized exercise program will depend on your abilities, lung capacity, and COPD severity.

You exercise program should include a variety of stretching, strength training, and cardiovascular exercises, along with some light interval training.

A exercise program that will enhance your tolerance for physical activity

Remember the whole idea of beginning an exercise program is to build up the endurance you need to live a healthier and longer life with COPD. This means that you should start small, and do not try exercises that cause you to feel overwhelmed or exhausted.

In no time, you will begin to notice your capabilities are growing, but this will not happen overnight. Be patient and kind to yourself in the first few weeks, and your body will thank you for it!

Breathing exercises

You should practice certain breathing exercises, before performing any exercise program. Using breathing techniques while you exercise is a great way to help increase your lung capacity to be able to handle the added activity.

Breathing exercise can also be done while you are not doing any kind of exercise, because they help increase the capacity of your lungs which will also help reduce the symptoms associated with COPD.

Breathing exercise done regularly, can help make physical actives easier and more comfortable.

Breathing exercise include:

• pursed lip breathing
• coordinated breathing
• deep breathing
• huff cough
• diaphragmatic breathing

While you are exercising, always breathe slowly to save your breath. Inhale through your nose by keeping your mouth closed. This will warm up, filter, and moisturize the air you breathe in. Exhale your breath through pursed lips.

By breathing out slowly and gently through pursed lips you will develop more complete lung actions, strengthening your lungs and improving the quality of each breath you take.

Also remember, exercise will not harm your lungs, even when you experience shortness of breath during an activity, this means that your body needs more oxygen. If you slow down your breathing and concentrate on exhaling through pursed lips, you will restore oxygen to your system more rapidly, thereby makes the activity more comfortable.

Stretching and Flexibility

Stretching exercises are movements, postures, and poses that extend your muscles and ligaments. That being said, it is very important to “warm up” before you stretch. If your muscles are cold and tight, you may pull or tear muscles by stretching them out.

Think of your muscles as rubber bands, when the rubber is warm the band can continue to stretch further without tearing. If you freeze the rubber band and continue to stretch it out, it will tear or rip in half very easily.

If you consistently practice yoga and other stretching exercises where you are slowly lengthening your muscles, it will increase your range of motion and flexibility. It is a good rule of thumb to stretch before and after any cardiovascular exercises to prep your muscles for activity, thereby preventing the risk of injury, and after, to cool down and prevent muscle strain, and soreness.

Strength-Training Workouts

Strength training exercises are done by repeatedly contracting or tightening your muscles until they become tired. This can be done using weights or doing body weight exercises. With COPD, it is good to focus on doing upper-body strengthening exercises, as they are especially helpful in improving the strength of your respiratory muscles.

Also by focusing your exercise program on strength training exercises this will result in less shortness of breath, and a great substitute rather than trying to do more cardio workouts. You are likely less able to tolerate much cardio with your COPD.

Aerobic Workouts

Cardiovascular or aerobic exercises include walking, jogging, cycling, rowing, dancing, and water aerobics, all of which utilize large muscle groups to strengthen your heart and lungs. This work will improve your body’s ability to use oxygen.

These exercise will be difficult at first, especially with your COPD, however research shows that getting regular cardiovascular exercise can improve your breathing and decrease your heart rate and blood pressure.

Interval Training

During interval training, you repeat sequences of high-intensity exercise scattered with light exercise and some periods of rest.

For example, you may walk for 30 seconds, rest for 1 minute, then walk again for 1 minute, and rest for 2 minutes, and repeat the cycle for a total of 10 minutes. This training will allows you to catch your breath after more vigorous exercise.

Interval training in COPD patients is often used as part of a pulmonary rehabilitation program.

How often should you exercise if you have COPD?

The duration and the amount of exercise you need is completely dependent on your skill set. If you were always an athlete and have a higher tolerance for exercise already, you will need to exercise more frequently than someone who has never been interested in physical work outs before.

In order improve your tolerance for exercise you have to understand what you base level of physical activity is to begin with.

The frequency of your exercise program is how often you complete all of the exercises listed about. On average, to achieve maximum benefits, you should gradually work up to an exercise session lasting 20 to 30 minutes, at least 3 to 4 times a week. By exercising every other day you will be able to keep a regular exercise schedule, and by giving yourself a rest day in between, you will not get burnt out.

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How can oxygen therapy help to improve exercise tolerance?

If your health care professional has told you to use supplemental oxygen while doing activities, you should also use oxygen with exercise. Your usual oxygen flow rate (the number you set on your oxygen machine) may not be enough for you during exercise.

If you are preparing for an exercise program, speak to your doctor about the supplement oxygen requirements you have, and how to adjust you oxygen intake when you are exercising to match the recommended dose of oxygen you need for exercise.

If you do not already have a portable oxygen concentrator (POC), these little light-weight yet powerful machines are perfect for preforming any kind of physical activity.

For example the Caire Freestyle Comfort Portable Oxygen Concentrator only weighs 5 pounds and can operate at a pulse flow setting from 1 to 6. If your favorite form or physical activity is walking, having a POC that can join you will only incentivize you to walk further and more often!

The Caire Freestyle has a concave side to fit around your hip when you are carrying it across your shoulder. The carrying case is open at the top, making it easy to adjust the controls and pulse flow settings at anytime.

On the lowest flow setting with the 16-cell battery, you’ll experience an astounding 16 hours of battery life! That’s 3 more hours than top-of-its-class portable oxygen concentrators like the Inogen One G5. What this means is that you’ll be able to stay out walking or exercising and about for longer without having to come back home to recharge your unit.

Speaking of the Inogen One G5, this unit is also great for exercise and physical activity. The G5 is 4.7 pounds and can be set at a pulse flow of 1-6, making it one of the most powerful but also the lightest POC on the market.

So as your breathing rate and requirements change depending on if you are laying in bed or exercising, the Inogen One G5 has the ability to satisfy your oxygen demands.

The One G5 also has extended longer-lasting battery life compared to other Inogen models, allowing you to be mobile and stay mobile for longer periods of time.

There are so many other options when it comes to selecting the best portable oxygen concentrator for your exercise requirements, as well as your daily life. In order to ensure you purchase the right unit for your lifestyle, first speak with your doctor.

Your doctor will inform you how much oxygen you need per minute (LPM or Lp/min), and the correct dose (pulse or continuous flow) of oxygen your lungs require to function properly. Your doctor will also write a prescription for supplemental oxygen which is required if you are purchasing a POC or home oxygen concentrator from a licensed distributor.

LPT Medical offers products from the most reputable manufacturers in the industry including but not limited to Inogen, Philips Respironics, Drive Medical, and more. These are the companies that are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for patients suffering with a debilitating respiratory condition. And by offering these brands, we ensure that more people around the country have access to the most state-of-the-art oxygen therapy equipment in the world.

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Stay motivated and continue to exercise

Exercise itself cannot cure or reverse COPD, but it can change the way you feel, breathe, and function.

Begin your exercise routine slowly by starting with easier exercises. Even if you think you want to push yourself and your limits, take it slow. Your muscles need to adjust to working like that!

The exercises you do should begin to get more challenging, and over time, you can walk faster for longer periods of time. Increase the amount of weight you use for strengthening exercises. And breathe better over-all. When you’ve reached the point that you’re feeling better and breathing better, keep this up every week at least three times a week.

If you are in the market for a POC, LPT medical is always here to help you find the best unit that will fit into your lifestyle and hopefully get you started or progressing further with your exercise program. To speak with a respiratory specialist call us at 1-800-946-1201.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most substantial health burdens in the world. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “chronic lower respiratory disease” (primarily COPD) is fourth on the list of leading causes of death worldwide, behind heart disease, cancer, and unintentional accidents. And despite the fact that fewer people are smoking than ever before, experts are expecting the number of COPD cases to rise within the next 50 years.

While the vast majority of COPD cases are caused by cigarette smoking, many people are surprised to find that COPD is a diverse group of diseases that have a multitude of different causes. One of the other major causes of COPD is alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. This is a genetic condition that inhibits proteins that are responsible for protecting the lungs from inflammation and long-term damage. Other factors such as air pollution, irritants, and chemicals can contribute to the onset of COPD. However, these are more commonly associated with interstitial lung disease (ILD). 

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COPD is divided into two different types: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Bronchitis affects the airways and emphysema affects the lungs. Many COPD patients have both of these diseases simultaneously but it is possible for someone to contract one without the other. And while many people think of emphysema as one disease, it’s actually divided into three different morphological categories. Depending on which one you have, you may require different treatments to manage your symptoms effectively.

In the following sections, we will provide you with an overview of emphysema as well as the three different subtypes. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us by leaving a comment or contacting us by phone or email. 

What is Emphysema?

Emphysema is a condition that’s caused by the deterioration of lung function due to the loss of lung elasticity and the deterioration of the alveolar walls. The alveoli are tiny air sacs located at the end of the bronchioles, the small airways that lead into the lungs. There are around 300 to 500 million alveoli in the lungs, and they’re microscopic, so they’re extremely sensitive to foreign substances like cigarette smoke, chemicals, and air pollution. 

The alveoli play a vital role in the respiratory system because they transfer oxygen from the air that you breathe into the bloodstream. They also remove carbon dioxide from the bloodstream and send it back out of the lungs. This process is called diffusion and it is one of three processes that your lungs perform. Unfortunately, due to how complex the respiratory system is, if the process of diffusion is impaired, this can cause a lot of problems for the other two processes of the respiratory system: ventilation and perfusion.

Not only do alveoli transfer oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the blood, but they’re also responsible for the spongy and elastic consistency of the lungs. As the walls of the alveoli break down, the elasticity of the lungs is lost and they become less efficient at absorbing air. Another issue this can cause is stagnant air that gets trapped in diseased areas of the lungs which can significantly increase the energy it takes to breathe and result in hyperinflation of the lungs. This also gives emphysema patients their “barrel-chested” appearance which is so often associated with the disease.

What Types of Emphysema Are There?

There are three types of emphysema that differ in terms of what causes them and the area of the lungs that are affected. Depending on which type of emphysema you’re diagnosed with, your doctor may have drastically different treatment options. No two cases of COPD are the same so your physician will work with you to determine what treatment will benefit you most.

Centriacinar Emphysema

Centriacinar emphysema (also called centrilobular emphysema) is a condition that affects the upper lobes of the lungs. Most often this type of emphysema starts in the middle of the lungs and progresses outwards. Centrilobular emphysema is almost always caused by smoking and second-hand smoke and it’s more common in people who’ve been diagnosed with coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP) in the past. 

Panacinar Emphysema

Panacinar emphysema (also called panlobular emphysema) is a condition that affects the entire acinus distal to the respiratory bronchioles. The acinus refers to the area at the end of the bronchioles and includes the alveolar ducts, alveolar sacs, and alveoli. It differs from centrilobular because it’s usually located in the lower parts of the lungs. Panacinar emphysema is most commonly caused by homozygous alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. 

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (A1AD) is a hereditary disorder that causes low levels of the protein alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) in the blood. This protein is made and released from the liver and it protects tissues in the lungs from being attacked by its own enzymes. A1AD patients may either experience abnormal proteins, poor production of these proteins, or both. All things considered, A1AD is a rare disease and it only amounts to a small percentage of the people diagnosed with COPD.  

Paraseptal Emphysema

The third and final morphological subtype of pulmonary emphysema is called paraseptal emphysema. This type is usually localized around the septae or pleura in the lungs. This is a thin sheet of tissue that’s located around the outside of the lungs and inside the chest cavity. This type of emphysema is commonly associated with prior lung infections. 

What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Emphysema?

Causes

Cigarette Smoking

Smoking is the most considerable cause of emphysema and all conditions under the umbrella term “COPD.” According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 80 percent of people with COPD have smoked in the past or are current smokers. Additionally, 38 percent of people who live with COPD continue to smoke. Despite these facts, only about 10 to 15 percent of smokers will develop some form of COPD. Smoking is more likely to cause cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the greatest predictor for someone developing emphysema from smoking is not whether or not they were a “light” or “heavy” smoker, it’s how long they smoked for — the longer someone smokes, the more likely they are to contract COPD. This is why doctors will always recommend immediate smoking cessation rather than simply “cutting back” on cigarettes. 

Secondhand Smoke

Secondhand smoke refers to the inhalation of cigarette smoke involuntarily as a result of someone else smoking. While there is a commonly held belief that secondhand smoke is worse than actually smoking, this is not the case. The toxicology of tobacco smoke is the same regardless of whether it was inhaled intentionally or not. Either way, cigarette smoke in any form can cause COPD and emphysema.

It’s estimated that there are over 7,000 chemicals in cigarette smoke and smoke can linger in the air for several hours. In other words, living with a smoker or being in an area where someone has smoked recently will put you at a higher risk of chronic lung disease. Cigarette smoke dissipates more quickly outdoors so, generally speaking, it’s safer to be outside. 

Air Pollution

Air pollution is a major contributor to the onset and progression of emphysema. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are five major types of air pollution: particulate matter, ground-level ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide. All of which can be inhaled into the lungs and cause permanent damage to the bronchioles and alveoli. Just like with cigarette smoking, the more you’re exposed to air pollution, the more likely it is to cause permanent damage to your lungs.

One great tool to help you learn about the air pollution in your area is AirNow.gov. All you have to do is enter your city or zip code and it will provide you a number between 0 and 500 with 0 being the least polluted and 500 being the most polluted. The EPA recommends that you should not go outside if the Air Quality Index (AQI) is above 150. However, if you already have a chronic lung disease like asthma or COPD, you should avoid going outside if the AQI is above 100.

What are the Four Stages of Emphysema?

Much like other chronic illnesses that take many years to progress, emphysema is broken down into different “stages” which medical professionals can use to identify the severity of your disease. Since early-stage emphysema has very mild symptoms, it’s often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed as other chronic lung conditions such as asthma. Read below to learn about the four stages of emphysema.

Stage 1

Stage 1 emphysema is very mild. In fact, it’s often so mild that it is undetected and undiagnosed. People with stage 1 may experience a cough, minor chest pain, and some breathlessness. Stage 1 emphysema patients have a forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) of 80% or more. 

Stage 2

Stage 2 is slightly more advanced than stage 1. This is when many people start to see their doctor because they begin to realize that their respiratory symptoms aren’t the result of aging or an acute condition. Stage 2 emphysema patients have an FEV1 between 50% and 80%.

Stage 3

By the time someone reaches stage 3 they have most likely received a diagnosis from their doctor. They’ve likely had several flare-ups in the past year and have been admitted to the hospital at least once. Stage 3 patients have an FEV1 between 30% and 50%.

Stage 4

Also known as “end-stage COPD,” this stage is characterized by severe breathlessness, coughing, wheezing, and fatigue which leads to exacerbations and hospitalization. Stage 4 patients have an FEV1 of less than 30%.

How is Emphysema Treated?

Supplemental Oxygen Therapy

Because emphysema can result in low blood oxygen levels (hypoxia) supplemental oxygen can be used to stabilize a patient’s oxygen levels and help alleviate emphysema symptoms like breathlessness, chest pain, and coughing. However, it’s important to note that oxygen therapy can be dangerous if it’s not used in the way that your doctor intends for you to use it. Oxygen is a controlled substance in the United States, so you’ll need a prescription in order to rent or buy an oxygen device.

There are many choices to consider when it comes to oxygen delivery devices so you’ll need to find one that best suits your needs and your lifestyle. Oxygen tanks are a very popular choice because they have a low upfront cost. However, they’re very heavy and need to be refilled constantly making them a poor choice for most oxygen users. Liquid oxygen tanks are an upgrade because they last longer and aren’t as heavy, but they cost more to maintain.

The best alternative to both of these is portable oxygen concentrators. An oxygen concentrator is an electronic device that takes in ambient air and removes nitrogen, argon, and other gases, then puts out medical-grade oxygen. The benefit of this is that you simply need to charge the batteries on your concentrator which is much more convenient than having to have an oxygen company fill your tanks.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Many years ago, exercise was not recommended for COPD patients because it was believed to exacerbate symptoms and increase the rate at which the disease progressed. However, in this day and age, pulmonary rehabilitation (exercise that’s focused on lung function) is championed as one of the best ways to treat chronic respiratory illness. This is due to a mounting body of evidence that shows even moderate exercise can improve COPD symptoms.

While you can exercise at home on your own time, it’s recommended that you start with a pulmonary rehabilitation program. Not only do these programs teach you how to exercise with emphysema, but they will also teach you important information about your disease and how it should best be managed. Read this post to learn more about how pulmonary rehabilitation works.

Dietary Changes

If you live by the motto “you are what you eat,” you probably understand the importance of a healthy, well-balanced diet. Nutrition affects everything from your heart health to your lung health and everything in between, so it’s wise to follow your doctor’s instructions on eating healthier meals. According to Lung.org, the metabolism of carbohydrates creates the most carbon dioxide, so they should opt for healthy fats instead which produce the lowest amount of carbon dioxide. HIgh-protein diets are also good for emphysema patients because they keep your lungs strong and efficient.  

Medication

Emphysema treatment usually involves some combination of oral and inhaled medication. Oral steroids can provide you with short- or long-acting relief from your symptoms whereas inhaled medication like bronchodilators are designed to open up your airways quickly in the event of a COPD exacerbation. Your doctor will discuss with you exactly which medications you will need and when to use them.

Most oxygen patients are prescribed inhalers, nebulizers, or both. An inhaler is a portable device that administers medication in a mist form called “aerosol.” this enables the patient to administer the medication directly to their lungs thus allowing it to take effect more quickly. Nebulizers play a similar role in an emphysema treatment plan but they administer medication in a stream rather than a “puff” making them easier to use for most people. 

Lifestyle Changes

There are many other lifestyle changes that you can make to treat emphysema and alleviate your symptoms. Focusing on getting more consistent and restful sleep is one way that you can feel more alert and prepared to take on the challenges of your disease. Ultimately, you should discuss your sleeping habits with your doctor to ensure that you’re doing everything you can to get a good night’s sleep.  

Another lifestyle change you can make is changing your cleaning habits. Many common household cleaners are filled with dangerous chemicals like bleach and ammonia. When these substances are inhaled they can cause COPD exacerbation which leads to increased coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Conclusion

COPD is one of the most preventable chronic illnesses in the world and emphysema is one disease under this umbrella term. Emphysema patients experience impaired lung function due to a breaking down of the alveoli, or tiny sacs in the lungs that transfer oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the blood. While there is no cure for emphysema, patients can experience significant relief and improved life expectancy with a carefully planned treatment routine.

Here at LPT Medical, we want COPD patients to experience relief from their respiratory symptoms while experiencing the freedom and independence they had before being diagnosed. If you haven’t done so already, ask your doctor if you might benefit from using a portable oxygen concentrator like the Inogen One G5 or the Caire FreeStyle Comfort. Both of these machines have a high oxygen output, they’re lightweight and easy to carry.

Whether you have a friend or a loved one with COPD or you have COPD yourself, you can likely attest to the fact that this disease can cause significant problems with mobility. The top causes of mobility issues in COPD patients include poor pulmonary function, leg swelling (peripheral edema), and loss of muscle mass (muscle atrophy). Combined with the effects of aging and other chronic conditions like osteoarthritis, COPD patients can experience a lot of difficulties getting around in their day-to-day life.

Aside from supplemental oxygen therapy, a healthy diet, and pulmonary rehabilitation, another thing that can help you get around are mobility aids. A mobility aid is a device that’s used to help older people and people with chronic conditions walk more easily. They’re often designed to improve balance, reduce physical load, and in COPD patients, they can even help to prevent exacerbations and flare-ups. There is a huge variety of mobility aids and you’re not just limited to choosing one or the other.

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In the following sections, we’ll help you better understand the mobility options available to you as well as some other helpful information that will help you maintain your mobility as a COPD patient. As always, if you have any questions, please be sure to address them in the comment section or consult your doctor for more specific information pertaining to your disease and treatment plan.

Why Are Mobility Aids Important for COPD Patients?

According to an article published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information, balance deficit is a common issue among COPD patients. COPD is a progressive disease meaning it becomes worse over time. And as symptoms like breathlessness, chronic fatigue, and chest pain progress, so do issues related to balance and mobility. Believe it or not, studies have shown that COPD is one of the chronic illnesses with the highest rate of falls next to osteoarthritis.

Several months ago, we wrote an article discussing a common complication of COPD called peripheral edema. In short, this is a condition where your legs or feet begin to swell due to a buildup of fluid. One of the root causes of this condition is pulmonary hypertension or high blood pressure in the lungs. High blood pressure in the lungs puts more strain on the heart and prevents oxygen-rich blood from circulating to organs like the liver and kidneys. Since these organs are responsible for removing fluids from the body, swelling of the feet or legs are usually a sign of this happening.

While peripheral edema is a complex condition, it’s one of the issues contributing to the high risk of falls in COPD patients. As the disease progresses, COPD patients don’t just have to deal with increased respiratory symptoms, they have to deal with complications that can result from their disease. Someone with peripheral edema may not even realize they have it because it often comes on slowly and doesn’t cause any pain.

Another issue contributing to the high rate of falls in COPD patients is muscle atrophy. In other words, as COPD progresses, patients tend to lose muscle mass from a variety of issues like a changed diet and reduced physical activity. Similar to peripheral edema, a patient may not realize that they are losing muscle mass until they experience a fall. This is why pulmonary rehabilitation is such an important part of any COPD treatment plan. 

One final problem that can contribute to the fall rate in COPD is an exacerbation. An exacerbation is an event where respiratory symptoms suddenly worsen. According to COPD.com, the most common cause of exacerbation is a bacterial infection, but air pollution is another common cause. COPD exacerbations can lead to problems walking, balance issues, chest pain, headaches, and confusion, all of which can increase your risk of falls. 

While mobility aids are not a replacement for your treatment plan, they play a crucial role in preventing falls, especially in people with late-stage COPD where the disease is the least predictable. Mobility aids don’t need to be prescribed by your doctor so it’s up to you and your loved ones to determine whether you need one or not. Continue reading to learn about some of the mobility options available to COPD patients.

Canes

Walking canes are the oldest type of mobility aid and they’re also one of the simplest. Most walking canes are made of wood or a light metal material meaning they’re easy to carry despite your level of physical impairment. Canes are also widely accessible, and you can buy them just about anywhere, or you could even make your own if you have time. Walking canes are great for taking weight off your joints and providing you with a little extra stability as you walk.

The key to improving your mobility with a cane is to get one that’s the appropriate size. While there is no hard and fast rule as to how you should choose a cane, it should be long enough that you aren’t bending over and straining your back in order to use it and it should be short enough that you can actually lean on it. For most people, this will be somewhere around their hip bone. Luckily, most modern canes are adjustable, so you’ll probably be safe buying one online rather than shopping around for one.

One thing to consider if you want to use a cane is how you will carry your supplemental oxygen device. If you have an oxygen tank and you wheel it behind you using a rolling cart, a walking cane might not be the best option for you because you won’t have any hands free to catch yourself if you fall. A cane is a better option if you carry your oxygen device on your back because it will help you keep a good posture as you walk.   

Walkers

Walkers are another mobility option available to COPD patients. There are several different types including traditional walkers, two-wheel walkers, and four-wheel walkers. Traditional walkers tend to be a poor choice for most COPD patients because they need to be picked up as you walk which can be strenuous on your shoulders, arms, and back. Two-wheel walkers provide a little more mobility by allowing you to push the walker rather than lift it. However, for most people, four-wheel walkers, or “rollators” as they’re often called, will be the best option. 

Modern rollators are more advanced than other types of walkers because they offer four swivel wheels that afford you more control. They also offer a braking system that’s controlled by two levers on the handlebars on either side of the device. They also provide a padded platform in the middle that you can either sit on or rest your oxygen device, purse, or handbag on as you walk. Some rollators even have a basket in front for added storage.

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It’s a good idea to speak with a mobility aid expert if you want to get a rollator. Since these devices are so popular, there are many different versions and brands available to choose from. What’s more, it’s easier to use one if you’ve been shown how to do so by someone who’s experienced with them. You’ll also need to have one fitted unless you can find one that’s adjustable.

Wheelchairs

When you think of a mobility aid, chances are, wheelchairs are the first thing that comes to mind. They’re commonly used by people who are permanently disabled, but how do they fare when it comes to someone with limited mobility? The answer ultimately depends on your individual circumstances. COPD patients with poor upper body strength may find it difficult to get around in a manual wheelchair, but if you have a caretaker or loved one who can push you around it shouldn’t be a problem. 

Another option for you are motorized wheelchairs or “power wheelchairs” as they’re often called. The benefit of investing in a power wheelchair is that you will have the same mobility as a manual wheelchair, but you won’t have to push it with your arms. Power wheelchairs have a joystick that you use to move in any direction. They’re not overly complicated to operate but they can be difficult to transport and you’ll need to keep it charged if you want to stay out of the house for extended periods of time.

Scooters

Mobility scooters are similar to power wheelchairs but they differ in terms of their design. Unlike power wheelchairs which use a joystick, scooters are controlled with handlebars similar to a bike. Scooters can either have three or four wheels depending on what your preferences are. They also have baskets on the front that you can use to store things like your portable oxygen concentrator, a purse, or other personal belongings. Since there are so many options available when it comes to mobility scooters, it’s important to speak with an expert who can align you with the exact product you’re looking for. 

Stairlifts

Stairlifts are a mobility aid that many people have never heard of, but they’re incredibly useful. Essentially, a stairlift is a chair that moves up and down a rail that’s installed on a flight of stairs in your home. The chair has a built-in motor that can be controlled with a joystick on the handlebars. This allows you to navigate the stairs in your home without the risk of experiencing a dangerous fall. The one downside to stairlifts is that they can be very expensive and many people can’t justify spending the money to have one installed in their home. 

Surprisingly, stairlifts are extremely versatile and can be installed on most staircases regardless of their size or shape. What’s more, if you like to get outside, there are specially designed stairlifts that can be installed on outdoor staircases. They can be installed in several hours so you won’t have to wait days or weeks to start using them.

Will Medicare Pay for a Mobility Aid?

Whenever it comes to medical equipment, questions about health insurance and Medicare are sure to follow. And while it would be nice if Medicare paid for medical expenses like you’d expect them to, it’s never that simple. More often than not, they will cut corners providing you coverage for mobility aids and find any way they can to offer you the bare minimum rather than what you deserve.

In short, Medicare will provide some compensation for manual or power wheelchairs and scooters. Mobility devices like these are covered under Medicare Part B and it is classified as durable medical equipment (DME) the same as oxygen tanks and portable oxygen concentrators. But it’s important to note that not all devices are covered. Medicare has a list of devices that are covered, and some of them require prior authorization. So, it’s best to consult with both the mobility aid supplier and a Medicare representative before you make any decisions. 

Another thing to note is that Medicare has a long list of prerequisites that you need to meet in order to qualify for compensation. First and foremost, the doctor that has prescribed you with COPD and the mobility aid supply company needs to be enrolled in Medicare. Additionally, you’ll need a written order from your doctor stating that you have a medical need for a mobility aid. For a full list of requirements, refer to the wheelchair and scooter benefit page of Medicare Part B.

Get a Handicap Parking Permit

Once you have your mobility aid of choice, you may want to consider getting a handicap parking permit. This permit will allow you to park in any handicap spot in the country making it much easier for you to get around. This is especially useful for people who are using electric scooters or power wheelchairs because you won’t have room to unload it in a standard parking spot.

In order to get a handicap parking permit, you’ll need to apply at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Every state has different policies but you’ll likely have to provide a doctor’s note which outlines your lung condition and symptoms. You’re more likely to get approved if you can prove that you use an electric scooter or power wheelchair as opposed to a cane or walker so it’s best to put time into finding a mobility aid first.

Last but not least, if you’re given the option between a handicap sticker that goes on your car or a placard that you hang on the mirror, always go with the placard. This is because you can transfer these to any car that you’re in whether it belongs to a family member or friend. Be aware that it is illegal for them to use the placard without you actually being present and most states require you to be recertified for your handicap permit every couple of years.  

Conclusion

Making the decision to use a mobility aid is an important step for many COPD patients. People with chronic respiratory conditions are at a higher risk of experiencing falls than the general public, but mobility aids will help to support your balance whether you’re inside or outside the home. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone has their own needs and preferences so you should consider all options available to you.

Canes and walkers are a good place to start because they’re affordable and they’re easy to carry. However, you may want to consider a more long-term solution like a mobility scooter or power wheelchair. These devices are generally safe and easy to use, and they will make it easy to carry around your oxygen devices such as your oxygen tank, liquid oxygen tank, or portable oxygen concentrator.

Lastly, you should check with your health insurance to see if your mobility device is covered. This could save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars. You can also file for disability and receive a handicap parking permit which will afford you more convenience and freedom whenever you leave the house. In the meantime, if you’re looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use portable oxygen concentrators such as the Caire FreeStyle Comfort or the Inogen One G5, don’t hesitate to reach out to your respiratory specialists here at LPT Medical.

We are writing this article to answer the million dollar question: Are portable oxygen concentrators worth the upfront costs? 

To clarify, we are a medical equipment company in Denver Colorado, and our specialty is in portable oxygen concentrators (POC). We work closely with these devices everyday along with the folks and families that need them. It is our number one priority to educate, execute, ensure. This means educating everyone that calls, messages, emails, or comments with inquiries about our oxygen devices. Executing the sales process effectively and efficiently, so our customers can get their oxygen device as soon as possible. And lastly ensuring that all of our customers are happy, satisfied, and taking full advantage of their oxygen device.

Nowadays, life is all about choices. We get to choose where we shop, eat, work, and much more. For the most part, this is a positive thing because it allows us the freedom to create a life that’s suited to our wants and needs. Oxygen patients, for example, can benefit from many decades of improvement in oxygen device technology and they have a wider array of options available to them than ever before including oxygen tanks, liquid oxygen tanks, stationary oxygen concentrators, and portable oxygen concentrators.

Unfortunately, there are downsides to having so many options as well. The more choices that you have, the more research you will need to do to ensure that you’re choosing the right oxygen device for you. Additionally, the more features that are added to oxygen devices, the easier it is to fall victim to scams and false advertising. This is why it’s recommended that you speak with a respiratory specialist after you’ve taken some time to look around for yourself and see what’s out there.

Here at LPT Medical, we understand the need for oxygen patients to choose the oxygen machine that’s right for them. But we also acknowledge that it can be difficult to find exactly what you’re looking for in a market that’s full of jargon and other confusing terminology. If you’d like to speak with someone who will help you understand your options but not pressure you into making an immediate choice, get in touch with our respiratory specialists today.

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In the meantime, we’re going to take a look at the benefits of the Inogen One G5, one of our most popular portable oxygen concentrators. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comment section and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. 

It’s Incredibly Easy to Use

If you’ve been a cell phone user for the past couple of decades, you’ve likely begun to notice a trend: they get progressively more complicated as time goes on. And while this might be a good thing for some people, if you’re like most people, you just want to be able to make calls or send a text message without using a bunch of unnecessary features. Many people believe that purchasing an oxygen concentrator will be a similar experience, but this is not the case when it comes to the Inogen One G5.

Inogen has been manufacturing portable oxygen concentrators since the early 2000s meaning they were one of the first companies in the business. And despite adding more features each generation, their POCs have actually gotten easier to use instead of more difficult. In other words, you don’t have to worry about bending over backward to learn how to use the G5. It will likely come naturally and you’ll feel comfortable operating it an hour or two after receiving it in the mail.

One of the reasons the G5 is so simple to operate is because it only has five physical buttons that you need to know how to use. One to turn the device on or off, two for adjusting the flow setting up or down, one to adjust the alarm settings, and one to adjust the volume settings. That’s it! There’s no need to spend hours on the phone with customer support trying to figure out how to operate your new device. The G5 also comes with a very thorough user manual that outlines all the symbols that may appear on the user interface display and what they mean. We recommend folding up your user manual and keeping it with you whenever you leave the house so that you can refer to it if you need to.

Another aspect of the Inogen One G5 that’s easy to use is the battery system. Unlike other portable oxygen concentrators which require you to open the device up in order to replace the batteries, the G5 batteries simply pop off the bottom of the unit and can be replaced in a matter of seconds. This is ideal for people who are on the go and don’t have time to tamper with their POC.

One other aspect of the Inogen G5 that makes it easy to use is the Intelligent Delivery Technology®. This built-in technology isn’t mentioned very often but it’s quite possibly the most important feature of the device. Essentially, what this does is automatically adjust your oxygen flow based on your breathing rate. In other words, you’ll be able to do things like walk, exercise, and even sleep without having to constantly change your oxygen flow setting.

It’s One of the Lightest POCs

One way or another, most people tend to lose muscle function as they get older. It’s a natural part of aging, and COPD patients are especially susceptible because of something called muscle atrophy, or “muscle wasting.” While you can combat this by exercising more often and maintaining a well-balanced diet, you might still need to find a lightweight POC like the Inogen One G5.

Although the Inogen One G5 is not the lightest portable oxygen concentrator on the market, it’s light enough for the vast majority of oxygen patients even people with late-stage COPD. The G5 weighs just 4.7 pounds, making it the third lightest POC ever manufactured behind the AirSep Focus and the Inogen One G4. It’s also lighter than its main competitor, the Caire FreeStyle Comfort.

Whether you struggle with mobility issues or not, the Inogen One G5 makes it easier to get around while still having access to medical-grade oxygen. This is something that simply wasn’t possible in the past with heavy and bulky oxygen tanks. The problem with these devices is that the weight of the unit directly correlates to the amount of oxygen that you have access to. In other words, if you wanted enough oxygen to make it through the day, you’d need to carry or wheel around an extremely cumbersome oxygen tank.

Unfortunately, with the turn of the century, things didn’t improve much. While there were portable oxygen concentrators available in the early 2000s, they were still very heavy and didn’t provide a decent enough battery life to justify getting one. We’re living in a revolutionary time for portable oxygen concentrators because lightweight machines like the G5 and the Caire FreeStyle Comfort are breaking barriers for COPD patients.

It Has the Highest Oxygen Output of any Pulse Dose Unit

One of the nicest things about owning a portable oxygen concentrator is how easy it is to adjust your flow settings. If you’re going out for a walk or to a pulmonary rehabilitation course, you might need to go up a flow setting or two in order to keep your blood oxygen levels stable. However, you can’t do this if you own a portable oxygen concentrator that doesn’t go up to a high flow setting.

The Inogen One G5 uses something called pulse dose technology. Unlike older concentrators which use continuous flow, pulse dose closely monitors your breathing rate and delivers oxygen only when you’re inhaling. Overall, this makes the device much more energy-efficient, affording you the freedom to stay out of the house longer. The Inogen One G5 has 6 pulse flow settings which equates to a maximum oxygen output of 1,260 milliliters per minute (ml/min) of oxygen.

The majority of oxygen patients only need to use a flow setting of 2 or 3, so the Inogen One G5 offers plenty of flexibility to move up if you’re exercising or your respiratory disease progresses. Be sure to maintain open lines of communication with your doctor and let him/her know if you’re feeling breathless and want to increase the amount of medical oxygen you’re receiving.

It Uses Powerful Lithium-Ion Batteries

The only thing making it possible to have portable devices like cellphones, laptops, and even portable oxygen concentrators is the advancement of lithium-ion batteries. These are some of the most powerful and reliable types of batteries out there and the experts at Inogen have crafted one that will afford you a significant amount of freedom with the Inogen One G5 portable oxygen concentrator.

The single battery which comes with the standard G5 package can run for up to 6.5 hours on a flow setting of one. The double battery which is sold separately can run for an astounding 13 hours on a flow setting of one. While this may sound too good to be true, it’s simply a testament to how much time and money Inogen has put into refining their products and ensuring that they offer the best possible value for your money.

There are countless reasons it’s important to have a portable oxygen concentrator with long-lasting batteries. First and foremost, it allows you to have ample oxygen supply whenever you leave the home. Even if you’re leaving the home for a few hours, it’s nice knowing that you have a safety net in case there is an emergency and you are gone longer than expected. If you are going on a flight, most airlines will require that you have at least 1.5 times the duration of the flight in battery life.

It Has a Low Sound Output

One of the things that people are most worried about when looking for a portable oxygen concentrator is that they will be noisy and cause a distraction for themselves and the people around them. And while this is certainly a valid concern, this will not be a problem if you purchase an Imogen One G5 because it only puts out 37 decibels (dBA) of sound on a setting of 2. This is equivalent to a quiet conversation or a slight background humming noise that won’t disrupt your day or anyone else’s.

The benefit of having a quiet portable oxygen concentrator is that you can take it just about anywhere without feeling anxious or worried. Most people report being able to take their Inogen One G5 to church services, libraries, or other quiet places without causing a disruption. Before you do so, however, be sure to read the user manual to figure out how to turn off the audible alarms. 

It Can Be Used 24 Hours a Day

Believe it or not, many COPD patients need to be on oxygen 24 hours a day. And if this is you, it means that you need an oxygen concentrator that’s capable of running around the clock without failing. Fortunately, the G5 was designed for just this. The intelligent delivery technology in the G5 will adjust your oxygen supply all night long to make sure you aren’t getting too much or too little oxygen.

The one downside to using the G5 while sleeping is that it is not compatible with CPAP and BiPAP machines used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This is a sleep disorder that causes your airways to close up as you sleep causing disruptions and putting you at a higher risk for several serious conditions like heart attack, stroke, and irregular heartbeats. The PAP machines open the airways as you sleep making it easier to breathe. And in certain cases, this disease can overlap with COPD meaning you’ll need to use supplemental oxygen simultaneously.

Backed by a Reputable Brand

One final benefit of the Inogen One G5 is that it’s backed by a reputable brand. Inogen has been in the oxygen industry since the early 2000s and people tend to wait in anticipation of their next product because they know they will be reliable and powerful devices. The Inogen One G5 is their latest generation of portable oxygen concentrator and it’s also their best. While the G5 has a very low failure rate compared to other POCs on the market, you can still rest easy knowing that you have a 3-year manufacturer warranty with the purchase of a new G5.

Another way Inogen supports the G5 is with a mobile application called the Inogen Connect. This connects to your device via Bluetooth and enables you to check your battery life, monitor column life status, perform column resets, and access your user manual all without ever touching your POC. This is perfect for people who are on the go often and don’t want to keep checking their device. Simply check the app on your phone and you’ll have all the information you need in one convenient place. Inogen will likely implement similar features into future concentrators because it’s been well-received by oxygen users.  

Conclusion

Choosing an oxygen concentrator can seem like an insurmountable challenge at times. Whether you’re in the market for a stationary unit, continuous flow, or pulse dose, you should take some time to understand your options before committing to anything. This post provided you with just a few of the many reasons to invest in an Inogen One G5 over other units on the market. For full details on the specs and benefits of the G5, be sure to visit our product page. 

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If you found this post helpful, feel free to bookmark our blog page. We update our site regularly with informational posts that aim to help COPD patients better manage their disease and live long and fulfilling lives. And whether you’re a current customer of ours or you just want more information on medical oxygen devices, please reach out to us either by phone or email.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common lung diseases in the world. It’s estimated that about 16.4 million people in the United States alone have COPD and millions more are either undiagnosed or at high risk of contracting it. Despite this fact, many people are woefully unaware of what causes this disease and how it should best be managed.

In short, COPD is an umbrella term that denotes two conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. While the symptoms and pathogenesis of these two diseases are slightly different, they are both primarily caused by cigarette smoking. However, in rare instances, someone who has never smoked can contract COPD through something called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AAT deficiency).

One of the symptoms of COPD that’s particularly vicious is something called an exacerbation. This is similar to an asthma attack in that it causes respiratory symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, and sputum production to suddenly become worse, oftentimes requiring you to seek immediate medical attention. In this post, we will help you better understand COPD flare-ups and exacerbations, as well as how to avoid being hospitalized as a result. 

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to leave them in the comment section so we can address them.

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What’s the Difference Between a Flare-Up and an Exacerbation?

Generally speaking, the terms “COPD flare-up” and “COPD exacerbation” are used interchangeably. They both refer to respiratory symptoms becoming worse due to environmental causes, infections, or any number of other things. However, when it comes to discussing these symptoms, it’s important to be precise not only about what’s causing them but how severe they are as well.

A mild COPD exacerbation is one that could lead to increased discomfort but is unlikely to cause any serious long-term consequences. These can typically be treated with short-acting bronchodilators (SABD) or “rescue inhalers” which work to quickly open up the airways allowing you to breathe better. Moderate COPD exacerbations should be supplemented with oral corticosteroids which suppress inflammation and antibiotics which can help fight inflammation.

The final type of exacerbation is a severe exacerbation, sometimes called an “acute” exacerbation. This type of exacerbation requires immediate medical attention and can even be life-threatening if it’s not treated appropriately. Ideally, the best way to prepare for this type of exacerbation is to have an action plan and ensure you always have someone on hand to either take you to the hospital or call an ambulance. 

Why it’s so Important to Avoid Hospitalization With COPD

According to the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, COPD is responsible for $72 billion a year in direct healthcare expenditures. The majority of these costs come from hospital visits which range from 4.5 to 8.8 days on average. Around two-thirds of all COPD hospitalizations are due to COPD exacerbations, and the majority of COPD exacerbations are caused by infections — specifically viral infections. 

The primary reason it’s important to avoid hospitalization for COPD is because of the risks for your health. According to another study by the aforementioned medical journal, after testing over 2 million patients, the 1-year readmission rate was 64.2% and the 1-year mortality rate was 26.2% both of which were significantly higher than rates among the general COPD population. Readmission and mortality rates are also much higher among patients who were hospitalized with severe exacerbation of COPD.

The second most important reason to avoid hospitalization due to COPD is cost. Frequent or long-term admissions can pose a significant financial burden on people with COPD which can also lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression. In our last post, we highlighted some key ways that you can avoid unnecessary financial costs due to COPD so check it out if you’re interested in learning more.

Have a Plan to Deal With Exacerbations

First and foremost, if you want to avoid hospitalization due to COPD exacerbation, you need to have a plan of action before an emergency occurs. An action plan is a sort of written outline that you will follow in order to accomplish a certain goal. This way, if you notice your COPD symptoms starting to worsen, you can refer to your sheet instead of worrying about making difficult decisions at the moment.

In order to prepare your COPD action plan, you should first consult your doctor. He/she will likely already have a template that you can fill out to make this process a little easier. On this action plan, you will need to create an “action” for every symptom you experience. For example, if the symptom is a gradual decrease in your blood oxygen levels, you might make a note to increase your oxygen flow setting or contact your doctor. If you experience sudden shortness of breath, you might make a note to use your rescue inhaler.

Another important thing to know about your COPD action plan is that it should not be private information. You should make it a priority to go over your plan with friends and family, especially if they spend a lot of time with you. This way, if you are in a situation where you are unable to act out your action plan, they will be able to help. In this post, we discuss how you can prepare for medical emergencies and hospital visits with COPD, so check it out if you want to know more. 

Change Up Your Diet

Diet can be a very difficult topic to discuss in this day and age. Most people have access to more types of food than ever before and there is a near endless list of diets that people swear by. As a result, it can feel like an insurmountable task trying to find something that keeps you happy and healthy. The good news, however, is that many years of research have been dedicated to COPD diets, so you shouldn’t have to do much scrambling to make sense of it all.

Generally speaking, COPD patients should maintain a diet that’s high in protein, fiber, and fat, but low in carbohydrates. The reason for this is that the metabolism of carbs produces the highest amount of carbon dioxide in the body while the metabolism of fat produces the least. Adequate protein ensures your respiratory muscles stay strong and efficient, and fiber helps to control blood glucose levels and reduce cholesterol in the blood.

Another reason to keep your diet healthy, natural foods rather than processed ones is because weight management is vital to COPD management. Most often, people tend to become underweight after contracting COPD due to a loss of appetite or other factors. Sometimes, people experience a loss of appetite because consuming food is more physically exerting than it was previously, and bloating can contribute to breathing difficulties. COPD patients who are underweight may find that they lack the energy or endurance to make it through the day.

On the other hand, being overweight with COPD can contribute to breathing problems as well. While it is less common for a COPD patient to become overweight than underweight, the problems associated with it can be just as severe. Simply put, having a higher body mass index (BMI) can be obstructive to your breathing by putting more strain on your lungs when you inhale. However, some studies have found mixed results when it comes to being overweight/obese with COPD.  

Be Consistent With Your Exercise Routine

Consistency is unbelievably important when it comes to treating COPD and preventing exacerbations. For example, your diet is much more likely to benefit you if you keep up with your goals week in and week out. But if you do well one week then cheat the next, you’re going to put yourself at a much higher risk of COPD complications like exacerbations. This works pretty much the same way when it comes to your exercise routine.

Oftentimes, exercise specialists will talk about getting into a “routine.” In other words, you do the same exercise each day for an allotted period of time. By doing so, it will be much easier to track your progress and catch yourself when you fall back on your plan. This works well for most people who want to commit to an exercise routine, but it’s especially useful for COPD patients who benefit more from consistent moderate exercise rather than high-intensity exercise.

Avoid Getting Sick

Lung infection is both the number one cause of severe COPD exacerbation and the number one cause of hospitalization due to COPD. With that being said, staying healthy and avoiding infection (especially lung infections) is vital. One of the best things you can do right now to avoid getting sick is to quit smoking or avoid second-hand smoke if you live around smokers.

It’s been known for quite some time that smoking reduces the immune response in the body and also makes the smoker more likely to have exaggerated responses to viral infections. During influenza outbreaks and with the current situation we face involving COVID-19, smokers have a much lower survival rate when compared to the general population. Not to mention that smoking and second-hand smoke can trigger COPD exacerbations even if an infection isn’t present.

Another thing you can do to avoid getting sick is to be more conscious of your daily habits. For example, do you wash your hands frequently throughout the day? Do you take care to avoid places that are unclean or unsanitary? Do you stay away from people who exhibit symptoms of the cold or the flu? Do you clean surfaces in your home like door handles, coffee pot handles, or faucet handles? Are you following all the precautions recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) in order to prevent contracting the novel coronavirus? 

Last but certainly not least, you should be getting the doctor-recommended eight hours of sleep each night in order to avoid getting sick. According to WebMD, sleep deprivation suppresses the immune system and puts you at a higher risk of contracting colds, the flu, and other ailments. This is an especially difficult topic for many COPD patients because respiratory symptoms can make it difficult to maintain a healthy sleep schedule. In this post, we take a look at some actionable tips to improve your sleep if you have COPD.

Avoid Environmental Triggers

It can be a scary world out there for anyone who values their lung health. From wildfire smoke to car exhaust and pollen, it’s easy to feel like no place is safe. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) even reports that indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Fortunately, it’s not all grim news for COPD patients who want to avoid exacerbation triggers. Just by following a few simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to avoiding the most common triggers.

Despite summer ending last week, we are still in the midst of wildfire season. As a result, COPD patients need to be aware of when they go outside, especially when it concerns exercising outdoors. Air quality index (AQI) is the measurement we use to determine how safe outdoor air is to breathe. Each day before you go outside, be sure to check AirNow.gov for the AQI in your area. If the AQI is above 100, this is a sign that the air quality is too poor for people with lung diseases like COPD, asthma, or pulmonary fibrosis.

Another thing you should be wary of is seasonal allergies. Contrary to popular belief, allergies are a reality during all times of the year as opposed to only being active during certain seasons. In September and October, allergens like ragweed are typically at their peak. According to WebMD, if you get allergies in the spring, you are about 75% likely to have reactions to ragweed. So, if you’re outside this trying to enjoy the fall colors and cool weather this year, just be aware that allergies are still a reality.

The final airborne COPD exacerbation triggers we’d like to talk about are the ones found in your home. Like we mentioned earlier, indoor air can potentially be more dangerous than outdoor air. This is because the air in your home is extremely concentrated, so if you track things in like dust, allergens, or smoke, it will likely start to build up in one area of your home unless you take the time to clean regularly. While it may not seem that important, taking the time to vacuum, dust, and wipe down surfaces every day can go a long way to preventing COPD exacerbations. What’s more, it will help you get your daily exercise.     

Use a Reliable Portable Oxygen Machine

Last but certainly not least, having a reliable portable oxygen device that you can take anywhere will put you in the best position to avoid COPD exacerbations and hospitalization. For the vast majority of COPD patients, supplemental oxygen therapy is a medical necessity. Not only does it stabilize your lung condition, but it also ensures your blood oxygen levels are normal, which in turn saturates every organ in your body with the oxygen it needs to function properly.

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For the foreseeable future, portable oxygen concentrators are your best bet for reliable portable oxygen. Unlike oxygen tanks or liquid oxygen tanks, portable oxygen concentrators are electronic devices. So, instead of having to go out of your way constantly to have your tanks refilled by an oxygen specialist, you simply need to carry batteries with you. Fortunately, these batteries are lightweight and don’t take up very much space in your backpack or handbag.

Currently, the best portable oxygen concentrator on the market is the Caire FreeStyle Comfort. It weighs in at only 5 pounds and it offers 5 different flow settings that you can adjust on the fly as needed. One of the unique features of the FreeStyle Comfort is its ergonomic design which keeps the device comfortably at your side rather than jostling around as some other concentrators do. 

Another portable oxygen concentrator we’d like to recommend is the Inogen One G5. While this POC came out last year, it’s still very relevant and a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable 24/7 medical oxygen supply. The Inogen One G5 has one more pulse flow setting than the FreeStyle Comfort and it weighs slightly less at just 4.7 pounds. Inogen is one of the top brands in the medical oxygen industry and they take pride in customer satisfaction.

In rare instances, your doctor may require you to use a continuous flow concentrator. If this is the case, we recommend the Respironics SimplyGo portable oxygen concentrator. This unit is twice as heavy as the Caire FreeStyle Comfort, but since it puts out a continuous flow of oxygen, it can be used with your CPAP or BiPAP machine if you have sleep apnea or another related sleeping disorder. If you’re looking for affordable portable oxygen concentrators, don’t hesitate to visit our online oxygen store.

Conclusion  

Unfortunately, exacerbations and flare-ups are a reality for COPD patients. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t take steps to reduce your risk of experiencing hospitalization due to an exacerbation. Above all, following your treatment plan as closely as possible and preventing sickness like the cold or flu will be your best bet if you want to avoid hospital visits. 

If you would like to learn more about managing chronic respiratory conditions such as COPD, stay tuned to our blog. We aim to equip our readers with the knowledge they need to combat breathlessness, chest pain, and fatigue in their daily lives, as well as learning how to cope with the mental aspects of chronic disease like anxiety and depression. Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions or concerns.