There are a number of treatments that may help you feel better and be more active. Talk to your doctor about what treatment is right for you. If you are still smoking, the most important thing you can do is quit.

Long-term controller medicines

• Most are inhaled medicines that you take every day to help manage your COPD.
• It is important to use your controller medicines every day, even if you are feeling fine.
• Some long-term medicines may help to prevent flare-ups.

Quick-relief (rescue) medicines

• Most are inhaled medicines you use when your breathing suddenly gets worse.
• Your doctor will tell you when and how to use a rescue medicine.

Keep track of your symptoms and how your medicines help:

• Watch for symptoms like more shortness of breath, wheezing, or coughing than usual. Look for changes in the color of your mucus.
• Tell your doctor if new symptoms appear.

Avoid Exacerbations:

• Ask your doctor how you can prevent a flare-up.
• Ask your doctor what to do if you have a flare-up.

Patients with more severe COPD may benefit from breath training and oxygen:

Breath training

• Breath training may help you breathe easier and be less anxious about your breathing.
• Your doctor or respiratory healthcare professional can give you tips on breathing exercises.

Oxygen

• If your oxygen level is low, wearing oxygen will help you live longer and feel better.
• Your doctor can do a simple test to determine if oxygen can help you.

How can diet and exercise help?

• Exercise and a good diet may help increase your strength to do daily tasks.
• Your doctor or respiratory healthcare professional can show you the right exercises and how to do them safely.
• Ask them to review your diet and refer you to a nutritionist if needed.

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Other Tools

• My Medicine Schedule