COPD Oxygen Therapy
Posted on Jan 26, 2010
COPD makes it difficult to get oxygen into the bloodstream and get carbon dioxide out of the bloodstream. To help patients get oxygen they need, doctors oftentimes put patients with moderate to severe COPD on portable oxygen therapy.
Benefits
Oxygen therapy can increase your quality of life by easing common COPD symptoms like shortness of breath and lack of energy. Several studies have also shown that it may help people with COPD live longer. It may also improve confusion, memory problems, and impaired kidney function.
Side Effects
If you follow the doctor’s instructions, there are usually minimal risks. Oxygen, however, is highly flammable so any cigarettes or open flames should be strictly avoided.
When & How Oxygen Therapy is Used
Long-term oxygen therapy is usually prescribed to raise PaO2 levels to somewhere between 60 and 65 mm Hg or oxygen saturations from 90% to 92%. Oxygen therapy is administered in one of three ways:
Oxygen Gas Cylinders
Liquid Oxygen Devices
Oxygen Concentrator
Typically, for long-term oxygen therapy, patients should get oxygen for at least 18 hours with as few interruptions as possible. Using it 24 hours a day should provide maximum benefit.
Remember, this site does not give complete information about COPD, oxygen therapy, or any disease. The information it does contain may not even apply to your case. For complete information, you should consult a doctor or a health care professional. The information on this site should not substitute the judgment or knowledge of a health care professional.
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Top 10 Shocking Facts About Cigarette Smoking
Posted on Dec 28, 2009
Cigarette Smoking Facts
- Statistically, every cigarette you smoke takes off 11 minutes of your life.
- There are 1.1 billion smokers in the world today.
- 70% of Chinese men smoke.
- If both parents smoke, a teenager is more than twice as likely to smoke than a young person whose parents are both non-smokers.
- If all women quit smoking during pregnancy, about 4,000 new babies would not die each year.
- If the mother smoked during pregnancy, her baby will average 6 ounces less and its pulse will be 30% faster than a non-smoker’s baby.
- Smoking-related diseases cause an estimated 440,000 American deaths each year.
- Smoking costs the United States over $150 billion annually in health care costs.
- A smoker will need an average of 7.5 sick days per year. A non-smoker will need only 4.5.
- Ten years after quiting smoking, a person’s risk of lung cancer and heart disease returns to that of a non-smoker.
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End Stage COPD
Posted on Dec 15, 2009
Before we start talking about end stage COPD, it’s important to understand the three stages that precede it.
Phase 1: Mild COPD
Stage 1 COPD
You have around 80% of what your normal lung function should be. At this point, you might not even realize you have COPD. Usually (but not always), you’ll experience chronic coughing and mucus buildup. Treatment is usually just limited to short-acting bronchodilator.
Phase 2: Moderate COPD
Stage 2 COPD
You have between 50-80% of what your normal lung function should be. At this point, you may experience some shortness of breath and some coughing upon exertion. This is the stage were usually people begin to notice their symptoms and go see a doctor. In addition to a short-acting bronchodilator, treatment may include long-acting bronchodilators and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Phase 3: Severe COPD
Stage 3 COPD
You have between 30-50% of what your normal lung function should be. At this point, you may notice increased shortness of breath and flare-up. In addition to the treatment option for moderate COPD, you may need antibiotics, long-term oxygen therapy and surgical treatment.
Phase 4: End Stage COPD
End Stage COPD
You have less than 30% of what your normal lung function should be. Symptoms are gradually going to become worse and worse and flare-ups can be deadly. Treatment is similar to severe COPD. Remember, just because you have End Stage COPD does not mean you need to start planning your death. Many patients lead good lives for years.
No matter what stage of COPD you have, following these tips may improve your prognosis:
- Quit smoking
- Avoid pollution, chemicals, dust, etc.
- Get an flu shot every year
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Exercise
- But most importantly, keep an open line of communication with your doctor or healthcare provider
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Top 5 COPD Flickr Images
Posted on Dec 10, 2009
These 5 Flickr images tell the story of how COPD affects the lives of millions of Americans.
Old Man Smoking – by LJ.
Old Man Smoking - by LJ. - 2008
Chest X-Ray of Lungs with COPD – by robhengxr
Chest X-Ray of Lungs with COPD - by robhengxr - 2006
Old Man with Breathing Tubes – by JurjenL
Old Man with Breathing Tubes - by JurjenL - 2006
Last Request: Dont Smoke – by Ajka_Hungary
Last Request: Don't Smoke - by Ajka_Hungary - 2008
COPD Research and Hope in the Future – by COPD – Learn More Breathe Better
COPD Research and Hope in the Future - by COPD - Learn More Breathe Better - 2009
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Asmanex Coupon – Free Trial Offer and $10 Off Prescription
Posted on Dec 10, 2009
Asmanex Twisthaler Coupon
Asmanex is the branded version of mometasone, a steroid (in the corticosteroids class of drugs) used to treat inflammation in the lungs. Since asthma is partially caused by a narrowing of the airways due to inflammation, Asmanex can be an effective treatment option. It may take up to two weeks before you’ll see your symptoms start to improve and the frequency of asthma attacks start to be reduced. Remember, Asmanex is not meant to be used when as asthma attack is already in progress!
Asmanex Twisthaler is inhaled orally once a day (or as directed by your doctor). Dosage is based on the severity of your asthma and how well you’ve responded to other treatments. Gargling and rinsing your mouth after each use may help to prevent hoarseness and oral yeast infections.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but don’t double up. If it’s almost time to take the next dose anyway, just resume your normal dosing schedule.
Asmanex should be stored at room temperature and away from light and moisture. You should discard the inhaler 45 days after opening the protective pouch or if you’ve used up all the inhalations (whichever one comes first).
Some of the side effects of Asmanex may include:
- allergic reactions (hives, swelling of face, lips, tongue, throats, etc.)
- trouble breathing
- wheezing
- skin rash, numbness, pain, bruising, tingling
- changes in shape or location of body fat
- worsening of asthma symptoms
- headaches
- runny or stuffy nose
- muscle or join pain, muscle weakness
- tiredness
- deepened voice
- changes in menstrual periods
- nausea, upset stomach, loss of appetite
Coupons and Discounts
You can get a 30 doses of the Asmanex 220mcg Twisthaler for free by filling out the form here. You’ll obviously need a prescription from your doctor before you can redeem your coupon.
You can also save $10 on each refill of Asmanex for a total savings of up to $120 per year. Just click here, fill out the form and bring the coupon to your local pharmacy with your prescription!
The site does not give complete information about Asmanex or any disease and the information it does contain may not even apply to your case. For complete information, you should consult a doctor or a health care professional. The information on this site should not substitute the judgment or knowledge of a health care professional.
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Top 5 Ways to Clear Mucus & Phlegm
Posted on Nov 30, 2009
5 Ways to Remove COPD Mucus / Phlegm
Living with COPD isn’t easy. Not only are the airways constricted, but the air sacs that transfer oxygen (and remove carbon dioxide) from the blood are damaged. Mucus in the airways only makes the problem worse. The good news is that there are several techniques and medicines that may help remove mucus and phlegm (pronounced flem).
- Coughing: COPD patients can have a hard time mustering the strength to cough effectively. This is due to the fact that COPD itself causes shortness of breath. The good news is that you can teach yourself how to cough effectively and it’s probably the one of the best way to clear mucus / phlegm from your throat. Here are some coughing exercises you can practice to get you started.
- Chest Physiotherapy (CPT): This basically using patting and vibrations on your chest to help the mucus out. Many physiotherapists are qualified in CPT and can show you how to do it at home.
- Postural Drainage: This is often use with chest physiotherapy. It involves positioning yourself so gravity helps you get the mucus out. There are 12 different positions that can help (depending on where the mucus is located in your lungs).
- Expectorants: Expectorants are a type of medicine (available over the counter and with a prescription) that loosen the mucus in your lungs and help you cough it out.
- Mucolytics: Mucolytics are available over the counter (OTC) or with a prescription. They help loosen thick mucus and make it easier to get out of your airways. Mucolytics are currently not a standard treatment option for COPD patients (according to GOLD), but some COPD patients do report they work well.
The site does not give complete information about COPD (or any other disease) and the information it does contain may not even apply to your case. For complete information, you should consult a doctor or a health care professional. The information on this site should not substitute the judgment or knowledge of a health care professional.
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Ventolin $15 Off Coupon
Posted on Nov 24, 2009
Ventolin HFA
Ventolin HFA, the branded version of albuterol, makes it easier to breathe by relaxing the muscles that surround the airways. It’s used to treat a number of conditions of the lung including asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Ventolin HFA can start working in as little as 15 minutes and continue to help for up to 6 hours.
Take $15 off your Ventolin HFA prescription. You can use the coupon up to 4 times per calendar year – that’s a total of $60 in savings!
Here’s how you do it:
- Print the coupon
- Talk to your doctor and ask if Ventolin is a good match for you
- Take the coupon you printed out in step 1 and your Ventolin prescription from the doctor and et your discount the pharmacy
- When you need refill, print out another coupon. Remember, you can only use the coupon 4 times per calendar year.
The usual doese of Ventolin HFA is 1-2 inhalation every 4-6 hours. The inhaler should be stored at room temperature, and kept away from excessive heat. Also, Ventolin HFA has a dosage counter which tells you how many inhalations you have left before you run out.
Some of the side effects of Ventolin HFA include:
- Nervousness
- Shaking (tremor)
- Mouth and throat dryness or irritation
- Cough
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Trouble Sleeping
- Nausea
- Fast heartbeat
- Muscle cramps or weakness
The site does not give complete information about Xopenex or any disease and the information it does contain may not even apply to your case. For complete information, you should consult a doctor or a health care professional. The information on this site should not substitute the judgment or knowledge of a health care professional.
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Free Xopenex HFA Inhaler Holder
Posted on Nov 18, 2009
Xopenex, the branded version of levalbuterol, is used to treat asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or COPD and helps prevent narrowing of the airways (bronchospasm).
There’s currently a promotion for a free Xopenex Inhaler holder. You just need to fill out some basic information and they’ll send it to you in the mail. No purchase is required.
Xopenex comes in two forms – an inhaler/puffer and a nebulized solution. An inhaler or puffer is pressurized and delivers a dose of medication when a person pushes the button on top. A nebulizer delivers a medication dose by passing air over a liquid form of the medication and creating a mist. Xopenex should be used as directed by your doctor. It’s important that you don’t use it more than what has directed by your doctor because an increased need for medication might be a warning sign of an approaching serious asthma attack.
Xopenex should be stored in its protective foil pouch at room temperature. Keep it away from light and heat. If you miss a dose, just take the missed dose as soon as you remember. You should not take twice the usual dosage.
It’s important to talk to your doctor to make sure Xopenex is right for you and to make sure you know how to properly get the medication into your lungs.
Some of the most common Xopenex side effects include:
- allergic reactions
- worsening of respiratory symptoms
- chest pain
- dizziness
- tremor
- nervousness
- anxiety
- headache
- cough
- runny nose
- upset stomach
- leg cramp
The site does not give complete information about Xopenex or any disease and the information it does contain may not even apply to your case. For complete information, you should consult a doctor or a health care professional. The information on this site should not substitute the judgment or knowledge of a health care professional.
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Symbicort Prescription Coupon – 100% Off 1st Copay
Posted on Nov 12, 2009
You’ve probably seen commercials for Symbicort (like the one below) on TV. Now you can get 100% off your first Symbicort prescription copay! Also, if you’re out-of-pocket costs are above $25, you’ll receive a discount on your next 11 refills (up to $75 in savings).
Symbicort is a treatment option for asthma and COPD. It contains budesonide (an inflammation-reducing steroid) and formoterol (relaxes muscles in the airways). Symbicort is not intended to replace a fast acting inhaler and should not be used during an asthma attack. It’s usually taken with a combination of other drugs and the dosage may vary. You’ll need to prime the inhaler before using it for the first time, if you drop it, or if you haven’t used it for more than 7 days by pumping two test sprays into the air away from your face. You should also shake the inhaler for 5 seconds before each use. It also can take 2 weeks before you start seeing improvement in your asthma/COPD symptoms.
Symbicort should be stored at room temperature, away from sunlight, excessive heat and moisture. Try to keep the cover of your Symbicort inhaler on when you’re not using it.
Note that Symbicort may increase the chances of an asthma-related death. As always, consult with your doctor before taking Symbicort.
The most common side effects include:
- Worsening asthma symptoms
- Chest pain
- Wheezing and other breathing problems
- Fever, chills, flu symptoms
- Blurred vision
- Sores in mouth/throat
- Hypertension
- Headache
- Back pain
- Nausea, vomiting, upset stomach
- Joint/muscle pain
The site does not give complete information about Xopenex or any disease and the information it does contain may not even apply to your case. For complete information, you should consult a doctor or a health care professional. The information on this site should not substitute the judgment or knowledge of a health care professional.
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How the Weather Effects COPD
Posted on Nov 07, 2009
The weather can have an effect on your COPD.
Talking about the weather could help many Americans breathe a little easier.
Extremely warm or cool weather brings more than discomfort to the estimated 24 million people in the U.S. who may have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)–a progressive, but preventable and treatable lung condition that includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema or both. The weather can also bring a worsening of COPD symptoms.
COPD is a lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe and, over time, interferes with a person’s ability to perform daily physical activities. Cigarette smoking is the most common cause of COPD, but environmental or workplace conditions may also cause the condition. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, regular coughing (sometimes with phlegm or mucus) and wheezing. Hot, humid air and an increase in ozone pollution during warm months can make the symptoms of COPD worse. In fact, studies show that people with breathing problems, including the elderly, are more likely to be hospitalized on hot, humid days.
But cold temperatures have an effect, too. Combined with strong winds during the cool months, low temperatures are known to trigger complications, as well as cause fatigue, in some people with COPD. Additionally, breathing cold, dry air shrinks the airways in some people with emphysema, making breathing more difficult.
“Extreme seasonal changes may irritate airways and cause people with COPD to experience severe symptoms, such as trouble catching their breath,” said Jill Karpel, M.D., Attending Physician, North Shore University Hospital, Long Island, N.Y.” It is important for people with COPD to avoid conditions that can worsen their breathing; they should also work with their physician to appropriately manage their condition, which may include rescue and daily medication.”
COPD ranks as the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States, and is projected to become the third-leading fatal illness by the year 2020.
Patients, caregivers, physicians, family members and friends can visit www.COPDguide.com to learn more about COPD. The Web site was made possible through support from Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Pfizer Inc.
This article was taken from
