The Ideal Daily Routine for Someone Suffering from COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD is an umbrella term which is used to cover a number of respiratory diseases. COPD affects the lungs which lead to the individual finding it difficult to breathe.

It mainly comprises of three conditions:

1. Emphysema

2. Chronic Bronchitis

As per the latest Global Burden of Disease study, there is an estimated average of 55 million individuals in India who are currently suffering from COPD.

What Are The Causes of COPD?    

One of The main causes of COPD is air pollution. According to the latest Global Burden of Disease Study, of the COPD DALYs, about 53.7% COPD cases were attributed to air pollution.  

Some of the other causes of COPD are as follows:

1. Smoking

2. Second-Hand Smoke

3. Exposure to biomass fuels. This includes animal dung, coal fuels and kerosene.

4. In certain cases, genetics also play a role in whether or not the person develops COPD. Individuals who lack the alpha-1 antitrypsin protein are more susceptible to this condition.

What Are The Symptoms Of COPD

Most individuals experience a few symptoms in different combinations. The main symptoms of COPD are as follows:

1. Feeling of breathlessness

2. Increased Coughing (with or without phlegm)

3. Inability to conduct physical activities for a long period of time

4. Wheezing

5. A tight feeling in the chest

What Should The Daily Routine Of A Person With COPD Include

Living with COPD can be difficult as the condition does compromise your day to day routine. However, by taking some minor but necessary steps, it is possible to go about your day hassle-free.

Mentioned below are a few tips to help an individual who suffers from COPD.

 1. After You Wake Up

The period when you just wake up is often the most difficult for people who face COPD. It is possible that the individual experienced a disturbed sleep cycle due to the constant need to cough. Practising chest clearing exercises  immediately after waking up and even at several points during the day will help clear your chest of any residual phlegm. By learning different chest exercises, the individual is able to better preserve his energy and avoid the risk of a lung infection.  Examples of chest clearing exercises include controlled coughing, posture drainage (wherein you lie down in different positions so as to help clear your lungs of pent up mucus) and chest percussions (which occurs by lightly tapping your back and your chest). If you are someone who shaves daily, sitting down to brush your teeth and shave is a great way to save energy. When you shower, avoid using strongly scented soaps and shampoos as that could trigger an attack. Opening the window is a great way to circulate the air when having a shower. This will help you to avoid getting breathless.

 2. Housework

Housework can be extremely tiring for people who suffer from COPD. Try doing your housework at a time which best suits you. Prioritize your work in a way that does not require you to complete big tasks one after the other. Furthermore, hiring a housekeeper or asking a relative to help you with more intense tasks like changing the bedspread is a great way to remove the added pressure. Do not forget to relax between each task.

3. Travel

Travelling can be difficult for people who suffer from COPD. It is important that you check your itinerary and inform your travel agent of your condition before you go on your trip. It is also vital that you speak to your doctor and get the required prescription before you leave.

COPD is often considered a major hindrance when it comes to living life to the fullest. However, with a well thought out plan, you will be able to complete your day-to-day activities without a hitch.

If you want to know more about COPD, please read The Causes and Risk Factors of COPD.