Respiratory Management Program: COPD

COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease:

Chronic: means it will not go away
Obstructive: means airflow to the lungs is partially blocked
Pulmonary: means it affects the lungs
Disease: means illness or sickness

People with COPD have a hard time breathing. COPD often includes several lung diseases such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis, and is often a result of smoking. COPD can be controlled with appropriate medications and a healthy lifestyle.

The Respiratory Management Program is available to eligible Providence Health Plan members managing respiratory illnesses, including COPD. Respiratory nurses are available to provide education and support, answer your questions, and help you set and maintain healthy lifestyle goals.

Quit smoking. We can help.

If you smoke, quitting is the most important thing you can do. If you quit smoking now, you can help control your disease and prevent further damage to your lungs.

Talk to your doctor about any problems you have with taking your medicines. For more information call Case & Disease Management at 503-574-7247, toll free 1-800-662-1121 or TTY 1-800-735-2900 for the hearing impaired.

Call 503-574-9620 or 1-800-700-0561 to access COPD-related information over the telephone.

• 4942 Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis and COPD
• 4940 Breathing Exercises
• 4946 Pulmonary Function Tests
• 4949 Using Oxygen at Home

A change or increase in your ordinary symptoms may be a warning sign to get help. If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, call your doctor. Be sure to let the staff know that you have COPD and are experiencing an increase in symptoms.

Get help if you experience an increase in:

• The amount of sputum (phlegm) produced
• Thickness or stickiness of sputum
• Changes in sputum color to yellow or green
• Blood in sputum
• Difficulty clearing sputum
• Severe shortness of breath, cough or wheezing
• Sleeping difficulties due to increase shortness of breath or cough
• Forgetfulness, confusion, slurring of speech
• Increased fatigue and lack of energy for more than 24 hours
• A need to use your rescue inhaler more often

If you are managing a chronic lung condition:

• Talk to your doctor before taking any over-the-counter (OTC) medicine or codeine
• Do not increase the liter flow of prescribed oxygen unless your doctor says it is okay
• Quit smoking

Colds and influenza (flu) viruses can be especially harmful to those who have COPD or asthma. It is important to get a flu shot and protect yourself from infections that can affect your breathing. Call your doctor right away if you experience worsening signs and symptoms.

Take steps to reduce your chance of getting a cold or the flu:

• Get a flu shot. The flu shot is your best protection from viruses that cause the flu. Even if you get a flu shot and still get the flu later, you will be less sick than you would have been without the shot's protection. You can get a flu shot at your doctor's office or at a local pharmacy or community clinic.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water. Hand washing stops the spread of infection. Viruses can last for hours - the more often you wash your hands, the less likely you are to get sick.
• Don't touch your face. Germs spread when a person touches a contaminated surface and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.
• Practice good health habits. Eat nutritious foods, drink plenty of water, get enough sleep and stay as active as your condition allows.
• Avoid crowds. The more people you come in contact with the greater your chances of catching a cold or other virus. For example, consider renting movies instead of going to a theater. Also, try to shop when stores are least crowded.

Using prescription medications correctly is an important part of managing your health. Estimates in medical literature suggest that half of all prescriptions filled are taken incorrectly. Medication is vital in the treatment of respiratory conditions. It slows the progress of disease and enhances quality of life. Whether you are managing asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema or another chronic lung condition, taking your medications as prescribed is important.

Here are some tips to assist you in managing your medications:

• Take your medications as part of your daily routine, such as after a meal or when you brush your teeth.
• Consider using a calendar or pillbox with dividers to organize your prescribed doses. If you are using an inhaler, record the doses (or “puffs”) you have taken. Empty inhalers can be deceiving when activated – releasing air but without the medication.
• Do not store your medications – including inhalers – where they will be exposed to high humidity and severe hot and cold temperatures. Gym lockers and car glove compartments are examples of unsuitable storage locations.
• Place reminders where you'll easily notice them. Your bedside, refrigerator or bathroom mirror are some suggestions.
• Understand the potential side effects of your medications. Let your doctor know if you experience side effects that bother you.
• Always take your medications exactly as directed – even if you don't feel sick or do not have any symptoms.
• Be sure to plan ahead and allow several days for refill requests so that your medications do not run out.

If the costs of medications prevent you from following your prescribed treatment:

• Ask your physician or pharmacist about less expensive options.
• Ask about cost-saving generics whenever the option exists to replace brand medications.
• Comparison shop for the best prices.
• Consider mail order pharmacy services as an option for potential time and cost savings.