COPD360social welcomes new member Daniel T. who joins 65,591 current members of our community. Weโ€™re glad you're here!

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

๐Ÿง… Happy Onion Ring Day, COPD360social!

It's Monday, and apparently it's National Onion Ring Day โ€” which got me thinking...

Much like an onion ring, life with COPD can come with a few layers:
๐Ÿง… Medications and treatments
๐Ÿง… Doctor appointments
๐Ÿง… Oxygen equipment and supplies
๐Ÿง… Exercise and pulmonary rehab
๐Ÿง… Family, friends, and caregivers
๐Ÿง… Finding time for yourself

Some days it can feel like a lot.

But just like a basket of onion rings, you don't have to tackle every layer all at once. Sometimes the best approach is taking things one ring at a time.

As we kick off a new week, what's one thing you're focusing on this week?

๐Ÿ’™ A walk around the block?
๐Ÿงก Staying on top of treatments?
๐Ÿ’™ Drinking more water?
๐Ÿงก Spending time with family?
๐Ÿ’™ Simply making it through a challenging day?

Drop your answer below and let's cheer each other on.

And while we're at it...

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Quick Monday Poll:

Are onion rings a:
๐Ÿ‘ Must-have favorite
โค Occasional treat
๐Ÿ˜‚ Not for me

Here's to a week with a little crunch, a little flavor, and plenty of support from your COPD360social family.

14 hours ago

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

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question Anybody feeling their breath catching in throat?

That is not a typical complaint. Have you been evaluated for vocal cord dysfunction? (ear, nose and throat doctor would need to take a look). This is typically addressed with speech therapy/ breathing exercises. https://www.aaaai.org/conditions …
Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain also answered the question Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain also answered the question

5 hours ago

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

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question Does pulmonary rehab help?

Yes. I try to get all of my patients to pulmonary rehab. The only complaint I have consistently heard has been "why did I not do this earlier?"
BarePhyliss DiLorenzo NJ State CaptainCaroline West Virginia State Captainand 2 others also answered the question Bareand 4 others also answered the question

5 hours ago

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain

Iโ€™m relieved and proud I finally removed the worn out velcro strip on my Inogen backpack and replaced it with a sturdy but flexible piece of wire. Now the tubing stays put instead of getting caught and dragging on the ground. 


Sure wish I had done it ages ago but better now than later. Haha!  Itโ€™s funny how just tiny changes can really improve things!

7 hours ago

CareGiveLove4DadNH

CareGiveLove4DadNH

๐Ÿ˜’ A bit overwhelmed yet making the best of this end of life hospice journey caring for my dad today. #OneSecondAtATime #IWillNotTryToDoEverythingToday #WeStillHaveToday

13 hours ago

BlueSky

BlueSkyasked the question: Anybody feeling their breath catching in throat?

Occasionally I have a feeling as though my breath has caught in my throat as I breathe in, udually when laughing or talking. Afterwards there'll be a soreness in my chest and my voice is hoarse for a while, then returns to normal. Im still finding out …

14 hours ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manageranswered the question I am looking for an affordable Online Pharmacy USA for my Spiriva.

If you're looking for ways to save money on medications, one resource Iโ€™ve felt comfortable recommending is Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drug Company. They focus on transparent pricing and can sometimes offer significant savings on many generic medications. …
Webbgirl028joshepmilton2203and 1 other also answered the question Webbgirl028and 3 others also answered the question

15 hours ago

Ken Benson-California Lung Health Advocate and State Captain

Ken Benson-California Lung Health Advocate and State Captain

Monday Morning Music
"Do You Believe in Magic" Loving Spoonful
https://open.spotify.com/track/1udKn1oNKYQSQ9OmiIWCMu?si=631f613b1bff453e

15 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

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

๐ŸŸฉPICKLED CUBANELLE PEPPERS๐ŸŸฉ4 large cubanelle peppers2 1/2 cups water2 cups white vinegar 2 tbsp. salt1/2 tsp. minced garlic Microwave the water in a large bowl until almost boiling. Meanwhile, slice the peppers into 1/4-inch rings.Place the...

17 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainYes! It's Monday! We are SO ready to start our day with a positive outlook! Put a smile on your face, and you're good to go! ๐Ÿ˜€
Have an awesome, easy breathing day, friends! ๐Ÿ˜Š

21 hours ago

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

Happy Father's Day to all of our 360Social Members Dads, Granddads, and Great-Grandads,.Please cick on the link.
https://bmacards.com/qP2bk8

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy First Day of Summer! ๐ŸŒž 
Time to get into that grillin' and chillin' mode! ๐Ÿ˜Ž

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Father's Day! 
To all the Dads, Step-Dads, Pet Dads, and Grand Dads: May today be the best day ever! The stuff dreams are made of! ๐Ÿ’™๐Ÿฉต๐Ÿ’œ

1 day ago

acknowleged1

acknowleged1

 Hello daz23I am not a USA citizen, being an immigrant to Australia. I discovered COPD in 2000 when my doctor recommended some kind of inhaler treatement for 12 months. It didn't work. I am not complaining. You are a fire fighter, I admit I smoked for some 30 years and then gave it up 40 years ago. I now discover I am COPD. You say - moderate - what does that mean? please? I am desperate to know the "determination" of what this means. My doctor will not talk about my condition very much which leaves me in a quandary. I will not say "own" because you can't "own" any living thing, it is a matter o f agreement. I am responsible for feeding and caring for very large animals - I panick when the winter months come on as this severely impedes my breathing ability. What is the lifespan of people like us?  I do not ask out of morbid curiosity but as a responsible person who has the care of large animals. I am responsible for their well-being. Human doctors do not appear to care about this, merely about my condition. That is not good enough is it? I can't look after them like I used to, but they have the best of food, they have very clean water. I spend as much time with them as I am able - breathing allowing. Please do not brush me off like my doctor does. Please be kind and answer honestly. Because that is the kindest thing to do. You are a fire fighter - therefore, you are kind, you are caring, you are the very best of us. I know that. So please, answer me honestly. 

2 days ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments4 comment(s)
  • DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainI have a question, just out of curiosity. 
    acknowleged1โ€‹: Are you a zookeeper?1 day ago
  • Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State CaptainWelcome acknowleged1โ€‹   If your doctor isn't answering your questions, and is brushing you off, perhaps it' s time to ind another doctor?  And if your current doctor is not a pulmonologist (lung specialist) then you need to make an appointment with one in order to find out exactly what condition your lungs are in and what medications will help you to breathe better.  And ask about a referral to pulmonary rehabilitation.  I'm glad you found us.1 day ago
  • HIcopd - Hawaii State CaptainWelcome!  There really is no one who can accurately tell us how long or well we will live. In 2000, I was told I had moderate to severe COPD and should get my affairs in order because I might not live long. Iโ€™m still here 26 years later and just returned from an amazing trip to NYC, Scandinavia & Tokyo. 


    Yes, my lungs are a bit worse than 26 years ago and I am using different treatments but I am still living a great life and if you work closely either a great medical team, you can live your best life!


    I agree with the othersโ€”learn all you can, work with a good lung doc and ask about pulmonary rehabilitation. 1 day ago
acknowleged1

acknowleged1

Is this strictly a USA website. I am from Australia. I don't seem able to locate any support groups. I was diagnosed in 2000. I use an inhaler; the cold months make it difficult for me to breathe. I am not complaining, but, others depend upon me. I am sure this is a concern of many of you. If I die, then, what happens to those depending upon me? I don't know what to do. My symptoms get worse in the winter months, and I admit to panicking. But, there again, it is their lives that are in jeopardy as well as mine. I need to be able to do the things I was able to do, if only by halves. Their lives depend upon me. Can anyone help me please? 

2 days ago

acknowleged1

acknowleged1

I am not doing too well today. Does anyone know how to make COPD better, so that one can breathe and able to do the things they used to? 

2 days ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager๐Ÿ’™ Happy Father's Day from COPD360social ๐Ÿ’™

This weekend we celebrate all the people who show up with strength, patience, encouragement, and heart.

Whether you're a father, grandfather, stepfather, uncle, mentor, caregiver, friend, or someone who simply stepped in when you were needed mostโ€”thank you.

Living with COPD or another lung condition often means facing challenges that aren't always visible. Having someone by your side to listen, lend a hand, share a laugh, offer encouragement, or simply be present can make a world of difference.

Today, we're celebrating every person who has filled that role in someone's life.

๐Ÿ’™ Who is someone who has been a guiding presence, source of support, or role model for you?

Feel free to share a memory, a photo, or a few words of appreciation below. We'd love to celebrate them with you.

2 days ago

Navywife2

Navywife2

Thank you all for the welcome. I also use an oximeter 2 or 4 times a day. My rate rarely drops below 97, over the years I have relegated myself to sitting a lot more than walking. I am very lucky that my youngest son and his wife and kids do just about everything for me.  We live together and they cook, shop,etc. 
Hope you all have a grest weekend 

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Saturday! I hope you take some time out for yourselves today to relax! Enjoy your day, friends! ๐Ÿ˜Š

2 days ago

SDM

SDMcommented onListening to Your Lungs: When Itโ€™s Time to Speak Up

Thanks. Will check that out....

3 days ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragonHope everyone is at one with the fluff today.The wizard of Oz nailed it by the way there is no place like home.






My fur buddy keeping me safe from gangs of marauding squirrels. Breath well my friend's.

3 days ago

Navywife2

Navywife2

I have had COPD for 15 or so years, and have just found this group. Thank you for accepting me and being here. I joined to see how others are living with COPD. I am supposed to use oxygen 24/7. I do always use it for at least 12 hours a day. I feel fine, just can't walk very far.  Anyway, just wondering if anybody is on Nucala and wondering if it helps? Thank you so much.

3 days ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments5 comment(s)
  • JeanO53Hi Navywife2 โ€‹ - Welcome to 360Social!
    When I was prescribed supplemental oxygen, my pulmonologist told me when I needed to use it; basically 24/7.  What I've learned over the years is that I need to use the oxygen in order to keep my oxygen saturation above 92% as measured by an oximeter. 
    .. I suggest you check with your the health care provider who prescribed your oxygen about how you should be using it.  And a follow up question...  are you checking your oxygen saturation with an oximeter?3 days ago
  • das23Welcome Navywife2......3 days ago
  • HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain
    I agree with the others that having a good, thorough conversation with the provider who told you about supplemental oxygen is in order.  It might also be useful to have an exercise oximetry test and also an overnight oximetry test, to figure out what level of oxygen you need for exercising and for sleeping.

    Many of us have found that having a fingertip oximeter can be a helpful tool to find out what our oxygen saturation rate is.  For many of us our saturation rate can vary significantly, depending on what we are doingโ€”sitting still, moving slowly, exercising, or even sleeping.  Many of us have our doctors give us a target range theyโ€™d like us to keep our oxygen saturation at.  When we can do it without supplemental O2, thatโ€™s fine.  If we need supplemental O2 to do that, theyโ€™d like us to use it to be sure we donโ€™t start having new complications due to low oxygen levels.


    Oximeters are pretty widely available (often for under $30), online and at pharmacies and even ebay.  I like checking mine against my providersโ€™ oximeters, to be sure mine are reading similarly.  So far they always have been.  3 days ago
Caroline West Virginia State Captain

Caroline West Virginia State Captain

Have you seen the Lung Health Champion episode with Dave Sylvester?

3 days ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community ManagerToday, we recognize Juneteenthโ€”a day of reflection, remembrance, resilience, and freedom.

It also reminds us of something we see every day here on 360social: the power of community.

Many of us come from different backgrounds, different places, and different life experiences. Yet we gather here for a common reasonโ€”to support one another, learn from one another, and help make the journey a little easier for someone else.

When someone shares a hard day, celebrates a victory, asks a question, or offers encouragement, they are contributing to something bigger than themselves. They are helping build a community rooted in understanding, compassion, and hope.

Juneteenth reminds us that progress is not only measured by how far we've come, but also by how we care for one another along the way. By listening. By learning. By making space for every voice and every story.

Thank you for being part of 360social and for helping create a place where people can find support, connection, and a reminder that they do not have to face challenges alone.

Wishing you a meaningful Juneteenth.
โค

3 days ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments7 comment(s)
  • DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainThere is good in the world, Bob, and youโ€™ll find it right here. ๐Ÿ˜Š3 days ago
  • JeanO53Years ago, decades really, a dear friend sent the following note to me:

    You must give in order to receive.
    But, you must also receive to truly give
    Giving is tough, but receiving is tougher still
      since we all want to give and be received.
    We give because it provides tangible rewards;
    And we all want to be received beause it feels good
      to be deemed worthy of another's acceptance.
    But who is to do the receiving 
      if we are only interested in giving?
    Who is willing to give by receiving, and to do so
      simply for the joy of the experience?
    God willing we should become more selfless
      and generous and caring and anxious to receive,
    So that we may truly give!


    I've carried this with me for decades - a lesson I continue to learn even still.  3 days ago
  • Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State CaptainMany years ago I attended a conference at which each patient there was a representative from a difference respiratory condition association or group.  I came away realizing that as serious as COPD is, there are, unfortunately, far worse respiratory conditions.  All of us were there to learn from each other and to form connections between our various groups to advocate for more awareness, education and research funding.  3 days ago
Caroline West Virginia State Captain

Caroline West Virginia State Captaincommented onComprehensive Tobacco Treatment: Moving Beyond One-Size-Fits-All Care

 Arnelle, you have delivered an eye-opening article about quitting the cigarette habit as well as the dangers of vaping. I consider myself well-informed, but you have shown me that I need a refresher course....

3 days ago

JeanO53

JeanO53Happy Fluffy Friday!
Usual visitors to the bird feeder area - Birds, Squirrels, Chipmunks and, at different times of day, Deer.
And now, a Rabbit!  It's fun to watch them all interact with each other.

3 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

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

โšช๏ธMARINATED CAULIFLOWER SALADโšช๏ธ1 head cauliflower, broken into grape-size floretsHalf of a 12-ounce jar sliced roasted red peppers, drained well and patted dry with paper towels 1/2 cup halved Kalamata olivesHalf of a small red onion, diced2 tbsp....

3 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Fluffy Friday from my Mother's dog Sammy Joe. My sister and her hubby took him to the vet. I guess the poor kid really didn't want to go, but he made out alright! 
Sending smiles your way on this Fluffy Friday! ๐Ÿ˜ƒ

3 days ago

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captaincommented onListening to Your Lungs: When Itโ€™s Time to Speak Up

I agree that it would be worthwhile to see if you may qualify for any patient assistance program(s) and/or coupons did Dupixent. I did get coupon from manufacturer, and it made the cost free or $35/shotโ€”I canโ€™t remember which. ...

4 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.