3 Steps You Can Take To Prevent A COPD Flare-Up

After being diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, it is important that you make changes to your lifestyle and home to prevent flare-ups. A flare-up can not only be painful to endure, but can also cause more damage to your lungs. If you have been diagnosed with COPD, here are some modifications you can make to lead a healthier life. 

Improve the Air Quality

One of the most important things you can do is to improve the air quality in your home. Whether or not you are aware of it, your home's air contains irritants and pollutants that can trigger a flare-up. 

There are several ways you can improve the air quality. For instance, you can purchase a HEPA air filtration system, such as HEPA Filters at Ryan Filter Sales Inc. The system helps to remove many of the irritants that are in the air.  If you live in the home with someone who still smokes, this can be especially good for your health. 

Other ways you can improve the air quality is to keep your home clean. Regular dusting, washing laundry and dishes, and vacuuming can reduce the amount of dust and irritants in the air. If you have trouble with these activities, do not be afraid to ask friends and family for help. You should also consider home health care services. 

Keep Items Within Reach

Depending on how advanced your condition is, simple tasks, such as reaching for a book or phone, can lead to shortness of breath. Once you start experiencing shortness of breath, it can often be difficult to keep other symptoms at bay.

To avoid triggering a flare-up, move all of your most used items within reach. Be sure to do this throughout the home. The less you have to reach for items, the better for your overall health. 

Focus on Eating Healthier

As a person with COPD, your body has to use more energy to perform every day tasks. If you are running short on energy, you can physically struggle to do those tasks, which can lead to a flare-up. 

The best way for your body to get the energy it needs is to eat a healthy diet. Work with a registered dietician to create a healthy eating diet plan. 

By eating healthier, not only are you helping your body generate the energy it needs, but you can possibly lose weight. When you are overweight, your body has a higher demand for oxygen, which can be taxing to your lungs. 

Your medical care provider can help you identify other modifications you can make in your home and lifestyle to live easier with COPD.