If you are a COPD patient, or a caregiver to someone who has COPD, learning all you can about common COPD medications is essential to COPD management. Here is a list of common COPD medications that you will likely see prescribed to the COPD patient:
Patients who have COPD are often prescribed medications called bronchodilators. Bronchodilators work by relaxing and expanding the smooth muscle of the airways, making it easier to breath. Three types of bronchodilators are commonly used for treatment of COPD. Which bronchodilator will work best for you?
If you have COPD, your doctor may have prescribed glucocorticoids, or steroids, as part of your COPD treatment plan. While glucocorticoids have many benefits, they also have serious risks and side effects. Are you aware of the risks and benefits associated with the use of glucocorticoids?
People with COPD are more prone to bacterial lung infections than most. And, if you have a bacterial lung infection, then chances are your doctor will have prescribed you an antibiotic. Learn more about antibiotic therapy and how your doctor tells the difference between a simple virus and a bacterial lung infection.
Has your doctor recently prescribed oxygen therapy as part of your COPD treatment plan? If so, you may be wondering why you need it, and more importantly, how you should use it. Learn the benefits of oxygen therapy if you have COPD and how to use your oxygen safely.
Flu shots not only help prevent the flu, they can help COPD patients fight off potential exacerbations of symptoms, which are periods of time when your COPD may worsen. Learn how flu shots can help prevent COPD exacerbation.
People with COPD are at greater risk for developing pneumococcal pneumonia, a serious lung infection that kills 1 out of every 20 people who get it. And, even if you have already had a pneumonia vaccine, the Centers for Disease Control recommend that certain high-risk groups have a second dose. Are you among the high-risk group?
