Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic lung condition that exacerbates breathing by causing inflammation and mucus buildup in the airways. Acute COPD flare-ups often lead to emergency department evaluation and hospitalization for urgent treatment. Hospitalizations can be overwhelming, leading to challenges in understanding treatment protocols while at home. Explore a few key areas to focus on after discharge to ensure a smoother recovery and better overall COPD management. Integrating these management tools might help avoid future hospitalizations and improve daily symptoms.

Fully understand the doctor's orders

During hospitalization, the doctor will develop a personalized home treatment program to adhere to upon discharge. This plan, tailored specifically to individual needs, might include medication additions or adjustments, inhaler instructions, specific exercises, and oxygen therapy if indicated. Following this plan meticulously is critically important and can also be empowering. This is a crucial step to staying healthy and avoiding future flare-ups. Ensure, prior to discharge, the plan is clear and concise, and ask any questions that arise to eliminate confusion. Communicate concerns or anticipated hurdles so the doctor can address them while formulating the discharge plan. Take medications as prescribed and attend scheduled follow-up appointments.

Healthy habits make a difference

Lifestyle choices significantly impact COPD management. Smoking cessation is vital, as smoking irritates the lung tissue, causing inflammation and worsening symptoms. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fiber, and whole grains provides the body with the proper nourishment to function and reduce inflammation. Regular exercise, even low-impact activities such as walking, can improve lung function, stamina, and overall health. Adhering to these daily lifestyle practices can dramatically improve COPD symptoms and be empowering.

Boost your immune system

COPD can increase the risk of contracting influenza and pneumonia, worsening inflammation and mucus in the airways making breathing more difficult. Annual vaccinations for seasonal flu reduce the risk associated with influenza and provide the best protection in preventing disease. Pneumococcal vaccines additionally provide protection against the most common types of pneumonia and reduce the severity of the disease if contracted. Combined, these vaccinations provide an enormous health benefit through disease prevention. A healthcare provider can discuss options and make recommendations based on medical history, lifestyle, and travel habits, ensuring security and protection.

Staying healthy and managing disease

COPD is a chronic disease that sometimes warrants hospitalization for managing symptoms. Adhering to the discharge plan and adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as smoking cessation, eating healthier, and getting vaccinated are essential at-home practices that can reduce hospitalization and future complications. Managing COPD is a marathon and not a sprint. Staying committed to a treatment plan and prioritizing the tips mentioned above can lead to a more productive and fulfilling life. A healthcare provider or pulmonary specialist can provide the roadmap to living healthier with COPD while reducing exacerbations and hospitalizations.