COPD Medical Reference
- Which Devices Help Treat COPD?
Although there is no cure for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, inhaled medications can reduce COPD symptoms. Get the facts about inhalers and nebulizers.
- COPD Stages and the GOLD Criteria
COPD has different stages that help your doctor know how to best treat your COPD. WebMD explains categories and their meaning.
- What's the Link Between COPD and Heart Failure?
WebMD explains the similarities and differences between COPD and heart failure and how the two conditions are treated together.
- What Is Pulmonary Rehab for COPD?
If you’ve been diagnosed with COPD, your doctor might suggest pulmonary rehab. Learn about this program of exercise, counseling, and more.
- COPD Causes and Risk Factors
Smoking is the most likely reason you’re get COPD. Find out what else can cause ongoing lung disease and what you can do to lower your chances of getting it.
- Do I Need Oxygen Therapy for COPD?
Has your COPD gotten worse? Oxygen therapy may help you breathe easier.
- What Is a COPD Flare-up?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is an ongoing condition. But sometimes, you may have a COPD flare-up. Learn about the signs of one and what to do about it.
- Everyday Tips for Living With COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease limits breathing and makes everyday tasks a challenge. Here are some tips to make breathing -- and living -- easier when you have COPD.
- How Do I Know If I Have COPD?
To find out if you have COPD, you should keep track of your symptoms and consult with your doctor. You may also have to take several tests, but many of them are painless or involve getting a blood sample.
- What Are the Treatments for COPD?
COPD can make it hard for you to breathe. Learn which treatments can help you get active again.
- COPD: What Are the Symptoms?
Learn the symptoms of COPD and when to call the doctor.
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
Your doctor says you have COPD. Now what? WebMD explains what it is, what causes it, and what you can do to reduce your symptoms.
- Emphysema Symptoms
If you have shortness of breath even after the slightest activity, this may be a symptom of emphysema. Learn the signs that let you know you may have this form of chronic lung disease.
- Emphysema
If you have emphysema, the linings of the tiny air sacs in your lungs become damaged beyond repair. Learn more about what causes this form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAT) Deficiency
Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency is a genetic disease that can make it hard to breathe and cause liver damage. Here's what you should know.
- Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs): How to Use One When You Have COPD
Metered dose inhalers (MDI) and dry powder inhalers (DPI) help you get the right amount of COPD medication when and where you need it. Get the tips you need from WebMD to use inhalers the right way.
- Tips for Improving Your Quality of Life With COPD
From inhalers to quitting smoking to surgery, learn more from WebMD about COPD treatments that will improve quality of life.
- COPD and Exercise: Breathing and Exercise Programs for COPD
Exercise should be an important part of your COPD treatment. Learn which four types of exercise can help you breathe a little easier – and which to avoid.