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Understanding COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a long-term lung condition that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD limits airflow and may cause shortness of breath, frequent coughing—with or without mucus—wheezing, chest tightness, and unusual tiredness. Although COPD currently has no cure, proper diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms, slow its progression, and improve quality of life. The COPD Foundation provides information about symptoms, causes, testing, treatment, and support resources.
Learn more about COPD from the COPD Foundation
Nutrition and COPD
Good nutrition helps provide the energy the body needs for daily activities, including breathing. For people with COPD, maintaining an appropriate weight and eating a balanced diet may support strength, energy, and overall quality of life. The COPD Foundation offers information about choosing nutritious foods, getting adequate protein and fluids, limiting sodium, managing appetite or weight changes, and making mealtimes easier when shortness of breath or fatigue occurs. Consult your healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes.
Learn more about nutrition for people with COPD from the COPD Foundation
Exercise and COPD
Regular physical activity can help people with COPD maintain strength, improve endurance, and perform everyday activities with less effort. Although exercise cannot reverse COPD, an appropriate program may reduce deconditioning and improve breathing, energy, and quality of life. The COPD Foundation provides guidance on getting started safely, endurance and strengthening exercises, tracking progress, exercising with supplemental oxygen, and recognizing when activity may not be safe. Always consult your healthcare professional before beginning or changing an exercise program.
Learn more about exercise for people with COPD from the COPD Foundation