COPD360social welcomes new member SusuCoCo who joins 62,349 current members of our community. Weโ€™re glad you're here!

KarinaDK

KarinaDKanswered the question Newly diagnosed

thank you Wildebeest my breathlessness comes and goes and weirdly is not related to exerciseโ€ฆat least not always. I have troubles with air trapping but have started with some of the breathing exercises which has been really helpful
Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State CaptainWildebeestDavid Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )and 2 others also answered the question Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captainand 4 others also answered the question

3 minutes ago

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

For our members who celebrate Passover - please click on the card.
https://bmacards.com/3mU2vs

53 minutes ago

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question Caregiver fatigue

We have a number of caregivers on the site here. Every patient is unique. Recovery from infections can take a long time. This is why we recommend that COPD patients get all of their vaccinations (pneumonia, COVID, flu, RSV, Shingles, etc. ). No vaccine …

2 hours ago

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question Can anxiety affect pft

People can have good days and bad days. This can be related to just not feeling well, having had too much to eat, having a poor nights sleep, etc. That being noted- the spirometry you posted previously showed well done tests with evidence of obstruction …
das23 also answered the question das23 also answered the question

2 hours ago

Cinnamon

Cinnamon

I've just joined, and not sure if this is the right place to post questions? I've recently been diagnosed with mild emphysema/Copd, and have just stopped smoking, 3 months after diagnosis. I know I should have stopped immediately, but think I have only just  realised quite how serious it is, and stopped gradually.   I am now feeling overwhelmed by anxiety for the future, and feel I have ruined my life, just when we're about to retire, are expecting our first grandchild, bought a new house,  and had so many plans. Are there people who manage to remain at the mild stage, or do I have to resign myself to the fact that I will get progressively worse?

6 hours ago

  • NewestOldest
  • DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainWelcome to our community! ๐Ÿ˜€
    I have stayed at stage one for over 10 years. 
    Taking care of yourself, and maintaining a positive outlook are essential!
    Focus on the wonderful things in your life, and enjoy each day! ๐ŸŒž 
    Take your medications as prescribed, contact your pulmonologist at the first sign of not feeling well, steer clear of people who are sick, eat a healthy diet, stay active and exercise, stay hydrated, stay up-to-date with vaccinations...
    You will do well if you manage your condition properly! 
    Congratulations on stopping the smoking! ๐ŸŽ‰๐ŸŽŠโœจ๏ธ5 hours ago
  • CinnamonThank you DebbieB - that is very encouraging! I've got quite a few other questions - is this the correct place to post them?3 hours ago
  • DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainYou can post your questions here, or go to the drop down menu at the top of this page,  then click on "questions and answers ". You can post your questions there. 1 hour ago
DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainWhat do you cherish most? Is it your family? Your spouse? Your pets? Maybe it's your garden, or reading a book of poetry. Whatever it may be, please take some time out for yourself today. You certainly do deserve it. Enjoy this lovely Sunday, friends! ๐Ÿ˜Š

7 hours ago

SWcaregiverinNC

SWcaregiverinNCasked the question: Caregiver fatigue

Hello, I am new to this site, but I am married to someone that has asthma and COPD. He has never smoked at all, but has severe allergies which seem to be the trigger for his asthma and illnesses. I find myself going into panic mode whenever I hear him …

12 hours ago

WhiteLily

WhiteLilyasked the question: Can anxiety affect pft

Hi all! I'm curious if anyone knows if anxiety can affect pft results? I read some studies that stated it can, but would like some real-life situations to come to a conclustion!🩵

13 hours ago

45yrcopdasthma

45yrcopdasthmaanswered the question Symptomatic but lung function fev1/fvc 71.4%

So I've seen a pulmonologist. Very experienced clinician. He doesn't think it's COPD but rather asthma due to my history. He feels there is airway remodeling but is confident my lung function is still intact. Will be following up in 6 months time. Now …
1fatfannyCaroline West Virginia State CaptainDavid Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )and 1 other also answered the question 1fatfannyand 3 others also answered the question

15 hours ago

Marc uk

Marc ukanswered the question Hello everyone

Thank you Karen, I really need to get this concept out of my head that I am under a death sentence.I am seeing a private psychologist again next week to continue with cognitive therapy ,he has already introduced me to mindfulness and meditation.So I am …
Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State CaptainDebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainWildebeestand 3 others also answered the question Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captainand 5 others also answered the question

20 hours ago

Terri James

Terri James

Been feeling a bit rough the last few days. Very humid and cold weather.  I try not to let it get me down. Had virtual service with my church ladies this morning. This is a once a month thing. So that put me in a good place spiritually. I don't attend church in person. Do not drive and I prefer to stay with my church family in Hampton VA.  Been a member for about 15 years and when I moved to Roanoke, it was there that I became oxygen dependent.  Cracked ribs and punctured my lung in an accident. Still, I found peace here that I did not seem to find where I used to live in Newport News. 

22 hours ago

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question Flare-ups

Yes- the typical COPD patient averages about 1 flare-up (exacerbation) a year - so 5 in 6 months is a lot. You need to be evaluated and possibly have medications altered or modified.
HIcopd - Hawaii State CaptainKaren Deitemeyer - Florida State Captaindas23and 3 others also answered the question HIcopd - Hawaii State Captainand 5 others also answered the question

23 hours ago

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question Can using inhalers prescribed for Enphysema bring on symptoms if there were no symptoms to begin wit

Everyone is unique. Some patients have unusual responses to therapy. It would be helpful to know exactly what his numbers are ( from spirometry and other PFTs ) and exactly how emphysema was diagnosed. If medications are making symptoms worse rather than …
WildebeestCaroline West Virginia State Captain also answered the question Wildebeestand 1 other also answered the question

23 hours ago

KarinaDK

KarinaDKasked the question: Newly diagnosed

Hi everyone. im Karina. 43 year old danish girl who was diagnosed with emphysema two weeks ago. I have been in so much emotional pain since then and am truly happy to find this site. I have no idea what my future will look like and my doc havenโ€™t been …

1 day ago

Marc uk

Marc ukasked the question: Hello everyone

I would like to introduce myself and say hello to you all. My name is Marc in the uk.I am 60 years old.I had a chest infection when I was 47 and found out I had copd.I stopped smoking immediately and about 5 years later I started to find it harder to …

1 day ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager๐ŸŒž Good morning, 360social friends!


Hereโ€™s your reminder:  you are not your diagnosis - youโ€™re so much more. ๐Ÿ’ช๐Ÿ’™


Whether today is a deep breath kind of day or a take-it-slow one, every step matters. Youโ€™re doing the best you can, and thatโ€™s enough.  Jagger is adding his tail wags of support this morning - so consider this your fluffy dose of encouragement too. ๐Ÿพ


Whatโ€™s something that helps you stay grounded on the tough days?

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainLet's paint a picture of a lovely day. Trees filled with bright green leaves, flowers in full bloom, smiles on everyone's face...This picture can be a living picture, because Spring is here, and there are plenty of reasons to smile! Here's a big smile for you! ๐Ÿ˜ƒ Have an awesome Saturday, my friends! ๐Ÿ˜€

1 day ago

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captainanswered the question Traveling with COPD- How do you prepare for a trip?

One other thing about flight creditsโ€”if your doc writes a letter saying you canโ€™t fly, you can ask the issuer to allow you to get cash or at least give the credits to a loved one, family member or friend.
Jean IA State Captainlazy tBlairT also answered the question Jean IA State Captainand 2 others also answered the question

1 day ago

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain

Social Security
If anyone needs to contact SSA, don't call the national number, 1-800-772-1213. You will wait forever or be hung up on! 



Call the local office, search the web. Even if itโ€™s a toll-free number, as long as it isnโ€™t the one above, you have a better chance of getting your call answered. They answered in 15-20 minutes or so and can schedule an in person appointment if they need documents from you.

1 day ago

Queen01020304

Queen01020304

Hello everyone I just found out I have COPD at 34 so I'm in shock. But mostly glad that I have a diagnosis for the part of my lung issues.

1 day ago

BarbraG79

BarbraG79asked the question: Can using inhalers prescribed for Enphysema bring on symptoms if there were no symptoms to begin wit

My Husband was diagnosed with Enphysema and was prescribed Stiolto Respimat (tiotropium bromide and olodaterol. He didn't have any symptoms when he started using the medication but after about 3 days started getting wheezing and coughing. He was on the …

1 day ago

Lakegirl

Lakegirlasked the question: Flare-ups

Hi everyone, This is my first time on this sight. I was diagnosed with COPD back in 2021. In November of last year I had my first flare-up. Pretty scary to say the least. I have had 5 more flare-ups since then. My question is, is this a lot? When …

1 day ago

Aleida64

Aleida64

Hello All.
I am hopeful today. After several years undiagnosed, I saw a pulmonologist. I have advanced emphysema. I assumed my state was set and life would degrade from there. Now I am learning in rehab to manage my disease. Quite grateful.

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

๐Ÿ‹๐Ÿ‹EASY LEMON LOAF๐Ÿ‹๐Ÿ‹This is perfect to serve to your guests on Easter Sunday. You can also bake a few loaves to give as gifts! 1/2 cup butter 1 cup sugar2 large eggs1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. salt1/2 cup...

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Fluffy Friday from a new kitty friend named Oreo! Oreo is absolutely thrilled to be included in our Fluffy Friday fun! ๐Ÿ˜ƒ This adorable kitty belongs to my husband's co-worker and friend. Oreo wishes everyone a wonderful day! ๐Ÿ–ค๐Ÿค

2 days ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

๐Ÿšจ ALMOST FRIDAY ALERT ๐Ÿšจ
This weekโ€™s been a wild rideโ€”somehow fast and endless at the same time. ๐Ÿ˜ตโ€๐Ÿ’ซ

Wishing everyone some easy breathing and a great step toward the weekend. Hang in thereโ€”Fluffy Friday is coming, and the pups are ready to deliver the smiles! ๐Ÿถ๐Ÿ’–

Share a pic of your furry sidekick getting you through the weekโ€”we could all use a little extra fluff to bring us into the weekend!

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

๐ŸŒฎVEGAN WALNUT TACO "MEAT"๐ŸŒฎA healthy replacement for ground meat. Make your taco filling meatless and healthier! 2 cups walnuts1 medium red onion, finely chopped4 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, finely chopped 1 tbsp....

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

I had an interesting telephone conversation with a woman at my pulmonologists's office. I had received the unexpected call a little while ago. She was calling to discuss a comment I had left on an online feedback survey, after my appointment in January. 
The survey asked if there was room for improvement or change. I had written that I wish everyone in the office would wear a mask. So, I explained to the woman that there are illnesses floating around out there. Some patients aren't aware that they may be carrying germs. I also explained that I wish my doctor would wear a mask to protect himself and others. 
I have a very low immunity. I always wear a mask. Therefore, I did give my opinion about masks in general. 
I was told that masks are not a must, but are optional. 
I have an appointment with my doctor on Tuesday for a follow-up visit. Yes, I will be wearing a mask! ๐Ÿ˜ท

2 days ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Hi Terri Jamesโ€‹, welcome to our community - we're really glad you're here! COPD360social is a safe, supportive space where you can connect with others, share experiences, ask questions, and find encouragement from people who truly understand what you're going through. Feel free to explore, join conversations, or just take your time getting comfortable. And if you ever have questions, donโ€™t hesitate to reach outโ€”weโ€™re here to help. Welcome!

3 days ago

Medical Advice

It is not our intention to serve as a substitute for medical advice and any content posted should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. We make every effort to support our members, our medical professionals cannot and will not provide a diagnosis or suggest a specific medication; those decisions should be left to your personal medical team. While we encourage individuals to share their personal experiences with COPD, please consult a physician before making changes to your own COPD management plan.