Positive Options for Living with COPD
.
by
Teri Allen
The diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be devastating. It’s important to note, though, that while COPD is debilitating, it is not a death sentence. With proper disease management, people with COPD can expect to live a full and happy life. While there are no magic pills or quick fixes, there are many things COPD sufferers can do to have more energy, less shortness of breath, and an overall better quality of life despite breathlessness or use of home oxygen.
This comprehensive guide helps people in any stage of COPD learn to work with their physical limitations rather than against them. Compassionate and clearly written, it covers every aspect of the disease, including the psychological and emotional issues that go along with having COPD, medications and physical therapy, identifying triggers and warning signs, creating an action plan for worsening symptoms, techniques to make breathing easier, working with healthcare providers, and much more.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface
Dedication
Part I: Deciphering The Medical Code: Information Critical!
- Understanding the Respiratory System
- What is COPD?
- Diagnosing COPD
- Medications: What They Are and How To Take Them
- Alternative Therapies
Part II: Now That I Know—What Can I Do? Gain Greater Control Over Your Disease and Your Life
- Dealing With Your Emotions
- Flare-up Action Plan
- Breathing More Effectively; Huff and Puff and Blow The House Down
- Exercise for Life
- Nutrition; Food is Energy--Energy Is Life
Part III: Don’t Fight The Waves—Ride Them: Working With Your Limitations
- Setting Your Goals for Change
- Tips and Tricks For Daily Living
- Taking It On The Road: Traveling with COPD
Part IV: Now For The Hard Part…
- Commit to Quit
- Dealing With Medical Professionals, Insurance Companies and Other Frustrating Entities
- Spirituality: Finding Your Purpose, Claiming Your Power
Additional Resources
Bibliography
Glossary
Index
PUBLICATION DETAILS
PUBLICATION DATE: 2010 March
PAGES: 144
SIZE: 5 1/2 x 8 1/2
ILLUSTRATIONS: B&W illustrations throughout
INDEXED: Yes
BIBLIOGRAPY: Yes
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Teri Allen is a registered respiratory therapist who has worked in respiratory care for more than 16 years. She has a BA in health administration and has taught at medical clinics, hospitals and long term care facilities. She managed the Medford, OR, branch of a national home oxygen company for four years. She now works at Three Rivers Community Hospital in Grants Pass, OR.
