Few things in life give you a feeling of hopelessness more than finding a medication that can improve your quality of life, but it is too expensive to afford.  COPD medications can be very expensive, but with a game plan, you can get the medications you need without breaking the bank.  Let’s explore some ways to help you.

Earlier this week we discussed some Far East medical practices that may be helpful for COPD patients or those with other respiratory illnesses. Many exercises such as Tai Chi, Qigong, or Yoga contain a mindful breathing component that can be helpful for oxygen patients as well. In addition to lung capacity, many with lung diseases also battle, depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. These exercises have have also been proven beneficial for those conditions.

A recent study by British scientists have shown encouraging evidence that retinoic acid can slow the progression of emphysema and in some cases, even reverse damage caused by the disease. This acid is found in Vitamin A. Results from tests on mice have been very positive and the scientists how to begin human trials in the near future. This study is being conducted by doctors at King’s College in London where they have made great strides in revolutionizing treatment for COPD and other respiratory ailments.

Maintaining social contacts with family and friends is important for all aspects of life. Having a close friend to lean on during hard times or someone to share the fun times with is essential. It can ease the pain and amplify the good times but what about physical ailments? There have been several social science studies conducted that indeed confirm that there is a definite link between social relationships and health outcomes. In fact the American Journal of Managed Care has stated that socially isolated people have a 43% risk of illness reoccurrence, a 64% higher risk of contracting a serious illness, and an astounding 69% higher risk of all-cause mortality whether it be from heart attack, chronic illness, or any variety and combination of health issues.

Some 13 million people are being treated for COPD but it is estimated that as many as 13 million more may have COPD and not know it. Some patients in the early stages are being treated for a persistent cough which their physicians mistakenly think is asthma related. Adding further to the confusion as many as 40% of people that have COPD, also have asthma and asthma is considered a risk factor for developing COPD later in life. Though the two conditions are related it is important to know the difference between the two and which you have to recieve proper treatment.

Going throughout your day or being abruptly woken from a deep sleep due to dry mouth, is something that doesn’t get much attention, but it affects a large portion of patients with COPD on a regular basis. Dry mouth (xerostomia) is a condition that causes your mouth to feel parched of all moisture. Often times making it difficult to swallow, taste, or chew food.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not an easy disease to manage, as you may already know. The numerous symptoms that limit your ability to do things, the wide array of commonly linked diseases and illnesses, and thinking about life before your diagnosis all contribute to the difficulties you may have managing your disease.

COPD exacerbations and flare-ups are taxing on both you and the healthcare system. Not to mention, they are one of the terrifying aspects of dealing with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and for a good reason. COPD exacerbations result in more than 100,000 deaths and over 500,000 hospitalizations each year. Did you know that within 30 days of hospitalization 21% of COPD patients will be readmitted to the hospital?