Managing COPD Effectively
Posted on Nov 04, 2009 in Information
Managing COPD
A recent telephone survey found that patients who have COPD feel more in control when they actively manage their disease. The survey, commissioned by the COPD Foundation and Dey, L.P., asked 400 people living with COPD and 400 people who provide care for someone with COPD about their thoughts on using a nebulizer (a device that turns medications into a fine mist for delivery to the lungs) to treat their COPD and how they best manage the condition.
A recent survey showed that nine out of 10 patients who use nebulizationtherapy report satisfaction with their current treatments. Sixty-five percent of caregivers surveyed were significantly more likely than patients to wish that those they cared for had been placed on nebulization therapy sooner.
“COPD patients and their caregivers can make an incredible difference working together to improve their quality of life by being proactive in the day-to-day management of their health,” said John Walsh, president of the COPD Foundation. “Caregivers are the unsung heroes who help keep patients on track and focus on achieving a better, active lifestyle.”
Key Considerations for Effective Disease Management
November, which is designated as National Family Caregivers Month, provides an opportunity to recognize the significant role that caregivers play in the daily lives of those living with chronic diseases such as COPD. The survey found that 58 percent of caregivers spend at least five hours each week assisting someone with his or her breathing disorder.
The survey also found that most patients and caregivers reported that the benefits of nebulization-mainly the perception of easier and more comfortable breathing-outweigh any challenges or constraints; specifically:
- Eighty percent of patients and caregivers surveyed preferred using a nebulizer over only an inhaler, a device that delivers medication directly to the lungs.
- Sixty-eight percent of patients reported easier breathing as the most positive aspect of nebulization therapy, and 86 percent reported a more comfortable feeling in their chest as a result of their nebulization use.
- Active living is also a factor, with patients noting their daily activity improved since initiating the nebulization therapy.
- Seventy-four percent agree they have been able to be more physically active in their daily lives.
- Twenty-five percent of patients surveyed cited the immobility of the nebulizer as a disadvantage of the therapy.
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