Receiving any kind of medical diagnosis can be scary and emotional, and if you have recently been told that you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you may be wondering what you can expect. Millions of people in the U.S. live with COPD, and the severity and progression of the disease can vary widely from person to person. Thankfully, COPD is typically a slow-moving disease, and there are things that you can do to lessen your symptoms, so you can enjoy the best quality of life possible.
If you are struggling with a recent COPD diagnosis, here are a few tips to help you cope with your new lifestyle:
- Find a support group
Don’t be tempted to “handle” this disease all on your own. Find people in your community that also have COPD, to offer advice, encouragement, and support.
- Increase your self-care
When facing a medical disease, it’s imperative to take extra good care of yourself. This means reducing stress, eating a healthier diet, getting plenty of sleep and fresh air, and exercising.
- Consider counseling
It can be scary and isolating to deal with a progressive illness, and sometimes it’s helpful to talk to a mental health professional. They can help you process your feelings and develop good coping skills.
- Find an oxygen provider
Portable oxygen is going to be important in managing your COPD, so find a retailer that you trust to supply you with high-quality equipment that will make your life easier.
When you’re ready to talk about your COPD and how to manage your symptoms, reach out and talk to one of our customer service representatives today!