Managing COPD

Managing COPD: Expert tips and support from Select Health.

Living with COPD can be challenging. But with the proper support and resources, you can manage it well. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious at times. You don’t have to face it alone. At Select Health, we understand the physical and emotional challenges of COPD.

Managing your condition involves a combination of good nutrition, regular exercise, and understanding your medications. Take time to check in with yourself, acknowledge your feelings, and reach out for help when needed. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

How nutrition affects COPD.

Following specific nutrition guidelines can help you manage COPD more effectively. It’s essential to:

• Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your meals.
• Avoid foods that cause bloating or gas since they can make breathing more difficult.

For nutrition recommendations, refer to the Nutrition Guidelines for Lung Disease.¹

COPD and physical activity.

Before starting a new exercise activity, talk with your healthcare provider. You can set realistic exercise goals together and create a plan that suits your condition. Use the COPD Action and Management Plan² to review any activities you should avoid and the steps to take if you experience symptoms.

Benefits of exercise for those living with COPD.

Regular exercise improves your symptoms and overall health. By including physical activity into your daily routine, you can experience:

• Better circulation, supporting better oxygen delivery throughout your body
• Enhanced mood
• Increased energy levels and stamina while reducing fatigue
• Reduced anxiety by lowering stress levels
• Strengthened respiratory muscles that help with breathing

Exercises to help keep you healthy.

Many exercises benefit patients with COPD. Using oxygen while exercising and practicing proper breathing techniques make exercising easier. Consider these exercises, which are generally safe and effective:

• Aerobic exercise—walk, bike, and swim to improve heart and lung function
• Resistance training—weights and resistance bands to improve strength
• Stretching—hold gentle movements to improve flexibility

Also, find safe places to exercise. Look for parks, community centers, or indoor gyms that provide a controlled environment. Consider joining a local COPD support group or exercise class designed for those with respiratory conditions, where you can find support and guidance from trained professionals.

Stay safe while exercising.

While exercise is beneficial, knowing when it’s unsafe is important. Avoid physical activity if you have a respiratory infection, experience severe shortness of breath, or during extreme weather conditions like when it’s very hot, cold, or humid. Pay attention to the air quality index, too. You should stop exercising if you: 

• Begin to feel exhausted
• Experience difficulty breathing
• Feel dizzy or lightheaded
• Have chest pain or pressure

Always listen to your body and talk to your provider if you have questions about your symptoms or exercise safety. 

Medication and COPD.

1. Set daily reminders: Use alarms or mobile apps to remind you when to take your medicine.
2. Use a medicine tracker: Keep track of your medications and doses³ using a tracker.
3. Organize your medications: Use a weekly pill container to organize your medicines for the week.
4. Talk with your pharmacist: Ask your pharmacist to help create a schedule that fits your routine.

Follow up after an exacerbation.

If you experience a COPD exacerbation—sudden worsening of COPD symptoms—and end up in the ER or hospital, you should follow up with your primary care provider after discharge. 

Always follow your prescribed medication treatment plan. The National Committee for Quality Assurance suggests using a systemic corticosteroid and a bronchodilator if you have a COPD flare-up. Talk to your provider about your medication schedule at your follow-up appointment. If you have trouble getting your medications or need help managing your COPD, contact our Select Health Care Management team by filling out this form.

Select Health’s Care Management Program.

• Screenings and immunizations
• Coordinating care for chronic conditions
• Understanding insurance benefits
• Providing transportation assistance to medical appointments

Get the help you deserve.

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed when managing a chronic condition like COPD. Try to acknowledge these feelings when they surface and give yourself grace. Remember, you are not alone. At Select Health, we are committed to helping you live a healthy and fulfilling life while managing your COPD. Reach out to our Care Managers or our member advocates for support. Call 800-515-2220.

The content included here is for your information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Additionally, the information in this newsletter does not guarantee benefits. To review your benefits, please reference your plan materials or call Member Services at 800-538-5038, weekdays, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., closed Sunday. TTY users call 711.

¹American Lung Association

²American Lung Association

³American Lung Association