COPD360social welcomes new member HelicopterMike who joins 64,461 current members of our community. Weโ€™re glad you're here!

baileymccrary

baileymccraryHi everyone! Our priority supplemental oxygen bill, the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act (H.R.2902), has been included on the House Energy & Commerce Health Subcommittee's agenda for an upcoming discussion patient access to Medicare services. This meeting is taking place tomorrow, January 8, at 10:15am ET. You can tune into the livestream of this meeting tomorrow using this link: https://energycommerce.house.gov/events/health-subcommittee-legislative-proposals-to-support-patient-access-to-medicare-services 

This bill's inclusion on the subcommittee's agenda exemplifies the SOAR Act's legislative progress and is a testament to the persistence and dedication of our network of advocates. We will continue to provide progress updates for the SOAR Act and share ways you can advocate for the passage of this critical bill.

Health Subcommittee: Legislative Proposals to Support Patient Access to Medicare Services

The Committee on Energy and Commerce is the oldest standing legislative committee in the U.S. House of Representatives and is vested with the broadest jurisdiction of any congressional authorizing committee.

5 hours ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Itโ€™s VMCotWW! ๐ŸŒโœจ
Weโ€™d love to see a glimpse into your world today. Share a view that brings you joy, comfort, or a smileโ€”whether itโ€™s something right outside your window, a favorite spot at home, a peaceful moment on a walk, or a place that lifts your spirits.

Your corner of the world is part of what makes this community so special, and seeing it through your eyes helps us feel a little more connected. We canโ€™t wait to see what makes you smile today. ๐Ÿ˜Š

8 hours ago

baileymccrary

baileymccraryHi everyone! According to the white paper "COPD in America" by the COPD Action Alliance, half of individuals living with COPD remain undiagnosed, limiting treatment options and worsening outcomes. The COPD Foundation has resources for those diagnosed with COPD here: https://www.copdfoundation.org/Learn-More/I-am-New-to-COPD/Newly-Diagnosed.aspx 

How can we reach the millions of Americans who are undiagnosed and living with COPD?

Newly Diagnosed with COPD

Once you know you have COPD and begin treatment, there are many things you should consider doing. These tips will not only help improve your breathing but may slow down your disease.

2 days ago

Kmcnamara68

Kmcnamara68answered the question Fef25-75% and IC both low?

Also Dr. Mannino I now notice some chest tightness after rigorous exercise that I never had before flare. Could any of this have to do with my high IgE levels to outdoor and indoor allergens that I will be seeing specialist for soon?
David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain also answered the question David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )and 1 other also answered the question

7 hours ago

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question Severe COPD, abuteral and Afrin alternative

You can ask your doctor about ipratropium (atrovent) - which is an alternative to albuterol. Have you tried nasal steroids (Flonase or similar)
Tom.E also answered the question Tom.E also answered the question

8 hours ago

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question Mild Obstruction Severe Persistent Asthma

Increases in the FVC and FEV1 have been seen in marijuana smokers (no one knows the exact reason- I suspect it is related to how people smoke these-- the very deep breaths with smoke might break down the elastin in the lungs.... but no one really knows …
das23 also answered the question das23 also answered the question

8 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

๐Ÿฅ„โšซ๏ธBLACK BEAN SOUPโšซ๏ธ๐Ÿฅ„ 2 tbsp. olive oil 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped Half of a small onion, finely chopped 1 tsp. cumin1/2 tsp. chili powder1/2 tsp. dried cilantro Two 15-ounce cans black beans and their liquid One 14.5-ounce can diced...

8 hours ago

Kmcnamara68

Kmcnamara68asked the question: Fef25-75% and IC both low?

I posted my PFT follow up results here a short while ago. This was done after a flare I had in October. While all the numbers remained the same as last one in 2019, even a little better, I don't feel the same physically. I noticed that my IC is slightly …

9 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

Happy Wednesday, friends! 
Remember, you ARE strong! You can handle anything life throws at you. Br prepared, and "think through before you do"! Your strength is contagious and encouraging to others!
Have an awesome day, everyone! ๐Ÿคฉ

13 hours ago

mebeal321

mebeal321asked the question: Mild Obstruction Severe Persistent Asthma

I am a 33 M. I was a heavy smoker of mostly weed for 16 years, I would never smoke tobacco by myself i only did it when at the beginning of smoking with friends and never made it a habit. Started smoking when i was 16. When i was younger i has exercise …

21 hours ago

ReggieS

ReggieSanswered the question Ohtuvayre use

I try pushing the plastic in .. hoping when I shake it the med will dissolve. Usually I can get most to dissolve. You do have to shake the heck out of it
Tom.EViperHIcopd - Hawaii State Captainand 2 others also answered the question Tom.Eand 4 others also answered the question

22 hours ago

ReggieS

ReggieSanswered the question I need help/advice with Medicare billing

I just went thru this. I have an advantage plan and I finally took the nebulizer med perscription to Walgreens and gave them my heath care card which showed the billing info for Part B. I spent two weeks going back and forth with part D people only to …
Jonnie Korinko (COPDF Director of Education)WvhickchicksJeanO53and 3 others also answered the question Jonnie Korinko (COPDF Director of Education)and 5 others also answered the question

23 hours ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Moving into January with intention โ€” a mental health check-in for COPD360social ๐Ÿ’›

As we move into January, many living with COPD find this month to be a quieter time after a busy season โ€” a chance to pause, catch our breath, and ease back into routine. January doesnโ€™t have to be about big changes; it can simply be about taking care of yourself where you are.

A few gentle ways to approach January:

โ€ข Start where you are
Thereโ€™s no rush. January can be about settling in, listening to your body, and honoring what you need right now.

โ€ข Choose small, supportive intentions
Instead of big goals, consider simple intentions โ€” protecting your energy, staying on top of medications, or allowing yourself extra rest.

โ€ข Release the guilt
Cold weather, shorter days, and COPD can make January feel heavier. Needing more rest or saying no to plans is part of caring for both your lungs and your mental well-being.

โ€ข Notice the small moments
A calm morning, a steadier breathing day, a warm drink, or a kind comment here in the community โ€” those moments matter.

โ€ข Move forward together
Youโ€™re not navigating this month alone. Whether youโ€™re sharing, reading, or simply showing up, being part of this community counts.

As we move through January, taking things one day at a time is more than enough. ๐Ÿ’™

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainGood afternoon, everyone!
I made some black bean soup to have tor supper tonight. The recipe is very easy, and you probably have all the ingredients on hand! 
Stop by the Eating Well blog tomorrow to find out how to prepare it! ๐Ÿฅ„ 

1 day ago

Caroline West Virginia State Captain

Caroline West Virginia State Captain

Hello Friends!  I am starting to feel better as I have been up since before 11am and not slept all day as I have the previous days.


I may not make it to the captains meeting, but want you to know that I am thinking of you.

1 day ago

UK Lynn

UK Lynn

Just a mention today to the UK members on the thread. I was diagnosed with emphysema after a CT chest scan several years ago due to chest pain so stopped smoking and haven't smoked for years. The emphysema diagnosis was confirmed by a spirometry. The UK govt are running a programme for free low dose chest scans for ex smokers. My results just came back today as "no evidence of smoking related lung disease'. I am obviously delighted with the news as an ex smoker but would encourage anybody to go for this test. The initial frightening diagnosis may not progress as much as people think. Happy New year to all and thank you for your support. 

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

๐Ÿฅ„MIXED VEGETABLE RICE๐Ÿฅ„2cups basmati rice1 tbsp. olive oil2 medium cloves garlic, minced2 1/2 cups water 2 tbsp. chicken bouillon granules2 cups frozen mixed vegetables, thawedIn a large saucepan, place the olive oil and garlic. Cook over...

1 day ago

ChefK

ChefK

Hi everyone that messaged. 
I am doing better now. Thank you. I went to the doctor on Friday and my doctor filled Prednisone, azithromycin, and duo nebs for me. She did have a telephone appointment with me yesterday. Turns out I have the new flu variant. She had her suspicions....hence the Monday phone call. 

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Tuesday, everyone! Yes! Today I choose to be filled with joy! I am elated because you've decided to join us here on 360Social! ๐Ÿ˜€
A great big smile, along with a positive outlook, will help to spread some sunshine all throughout the day! 
Keep on smiling, and keep on going, friends! ๐Ÿ˜ƒ๐ŸŒž๐Ÿ˜ƒ๐ŸŒž

1 day ago

Djrose

Djrose asked the question: Severe COPD, abuteral and Afrin alternative

I have severe COPD and type 2 diabetes, Iโ€™m on breztri 2 times a day and abuteral as needed. Iโ€™m congested most of the time and got hooked on Afrin. I still get short of breath doing minor things around the house and was wondering if there is an …

1 day ago

Nfl

Nfl

Itโ€™s been 8 months my husband stage 4 emohesema BODE score of 9. On contnous oxygen flow. Developed cellulitis. Still smoking 5 packs a day. Cheyenne stokes every night 

1 day ago

LadyG

LadyG

Hello All,
I'm not sure if anyone reads these besides the most amazing, Miss Caroline but I gotta try so I'm gonna send this out into the universe. 
I am on Bevespi and Levealbuterol. Does anyone have experience. and/or issues with Bevespi possibly making their COPD symptoms worse? I am asking because today I was in the Emergency Room all day and when I left I felt a little bit better. Not great, but a bit better. As the afternoon progressed, I started to feel a tiny bit more like myself. My oxygen was steady at 97%-98% and I thought I was starting to see some sort of improvement. However, at 7:30 pm I took my usual dose of Bevespi and now I'm feeling awful again. My O2 isn't that bad but my ears started ringing so loud and I just felt crappy again. Has this happened to anyone else? Am I going crazy? Any advice would really be great. 

1 day ago

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captainanswered the question Different Spiriva types

netmouse Over the years I've used both Spiriva delivery devices. The Respimat is not a new device, but it is more recent than the handihaler device. Both of them contain the Spiriva medication, simply in a different delivery form.
DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain also answered the question DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain also answered the question

1 day ago

Caroline West Virginia State Captain

Caroline West Virginia State Captainanswered the question Head Pressure/Pain when coughing

I see that Karen has already suggested that you might have a sinus infection. Your head becomes so congested that coughing increases the pressure and causes the pain.
Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain also answered the question Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain also answered the question

1 day ago

netmouse

netmouseasked the question: Different Spiriva types

Which form of Spriva do you use or have used? 1. Spiriva Respimat : A soft mist inhaler or 2. Spiriva HandiHaler : A dry powder inhaler I'm trying to decide. The first is not in stock at CVS and they have to order it. So maybe it is really new …

2 days ago

Jonnie Korinko (COPDF Director of Education)

Jonnie Korinko (COPDF Director of Education)answered the question Struggling with increasing shortness of breath โ€” looking for tips and support

Hi there, mehiked. Like many others have said, I recommend calling your doctor. You may be having a lung attack (exacerbation), or maybe your symptoms are getting worse over time. Either way, there may be either treatment for the lung attack, or …
Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State CaptainRickrdas23 also answered the question Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captainand 2 others also answered the question

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

Thanks, Karen! It's a very tasty way to prepare chicken! ๐Ÿ‹ ...

2 days ago

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

My grocery had boneless, skinless chicken breasts on sale this weekend (BOGO) and so I have all the ingredients to make this dish. It sounds easy and delicious. Thanks, Debbie....

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

๐Ÿฝ๐Ÿ‹BAKED LEMON CHICKEN๐Ÿ‹๐Ÿฝ4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 3 tbsp. butter1/3 cup chicken broth 4 tbsp. lemon juice1 tbsp. honey2 tsp. minced garlic 1 tsp. Italian seasoning Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Garnishes: Fresh...

2 days ago

Ken Benson-California Lung Health Advocate and State Captain

Ken Benson-California Lung Health Advocate and State Captain

user mabelnsanfords is bogus.  ad for a male enhancement product.

2 days ago

Medical Advice

It is not our intention to serve as a substitute for medical advice and any content posted should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. We make every effort to support our members, our medical professionals cannot and will not provide a diagnosis or suggest a specific medication; those decisions should be left to your personal medical team. While we encourage individuals to share their personal experiences with COPD, please consult a physician before making changes to your own COPD management plan.