Hiking & Outdoor Activities With COPD

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Yes, You Can Be Outdoorsy Even With COPD!
Receiving a diagnosis like COPD can be discouraging. It may feel like you’re not able to do the things you love to do anymore, and perhaps you’re feeling trapped in a new, restrictive lifestyle. But the truth is, for the majority of COPD patients, so much of life is still very accessible, especially with the right portable oxygen therapy!

If you love the outdoors, there’s no need to give it up after a COPD diagnosis. Many people enjoy things like hiking, birdwatching, canoeing, and other similar outdoor activities, and you can do these things, too. You can maintain an outdoorsy lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities, even with COPD or other pulmonary conditions if you’re smart about it and have the right tools. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  1. Get the right portable oxygen concentrator.

You may have been prescribed supplemental oxygen, but it doesn’t have to slow you down. There are many portable oxygen concentrators on the market today, which are lightweight and can be packed in a backpack or other bag. You can have the supplemental oxygen you need and still move around easily.

  1. Bring emergency backup.

Higher levels of activity, along with hazards like air pollutants, can exacerbate COPD symptoms. And when this happens when hiking out in the woods, at the lake, or in any other outdoor area, it can be scary. Make sure you have emergency supplies like a rescue inhaler and your medications in addition to food and water. It’s always a good idea to have a battery backup for your portable oxygen concentrator as well, just in case.

  1. Listen to your body.

There are millions of people living active, outdoorsy lives and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, even with COPD, but each of them may experience their symptoms differently. Get to know your body, your symptom triggers, and what level of activity feels best for you. Remember, some days will be harder than others, and adjust accordingly.

Want more tips on taking great care of yourself while enjoying the great outdoors with COPD? Get in touch with us at Portable Oxygen Solutions today!

Please Call 1-800-958-0192 to speak to one of our friendly oxygen specialists.