COPD is a chronic condition, which means patients will need a long-term care plan. But managing a disease for the rest of your life can feel really overwhelming. Where do you start? Firstly, patients should come up with a COPD action plan. This plan will reduce stress and also help you to stay healthy. Learn how to make your own action plan below.
What is a COPD Action Plan?
A COPD action plan is basically a document that helps you chart your symptoms and treatment methods. COPD can be overwhelming. By listing your medications, coping strategies, and also emergency plans, you can have all of the information you need in one place. Click here to download a free COPD action plan template from the American Lung Association.
Adjusting Your Lifestyle
People with COPD will need to make healthy habits a part of their lifestyle. While this sounds obvious, making changes can be easier said than done. Your action plan is a chance to outline different lifestyle tips so you can manage your symptoms. Seeing this list as a reminder can help you stay on track. You can also use your plan as a checklist to help you remember different new habits during the day.
Working With a Specialist
Don’t create your action plan alone. Your lung specialist can help you customize the plan to fit your exact needs. They can also make sure all of your emergency information- such as their personal phone number and your hospital address- are correct. This can be life-saving in an emergency.
Take Charge of Your COPD
Pulmonary Medical Consultants can help you find relief. We help patients throughout Texas manage their chronic lung conditions. We can help you find the right medication, create a COPD action plan, and more. Call us today or request an appointment online to get started.