COPD360social welcomes new member Woodsie007 who joins 66,467 current members of our community. Weโ€™re glad you're here!

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

๐Ÿงก๐Ÿ‚ November Is a Month for Awareness, Appreciation, and Caring! ๐Ÿ‚๐Ÿงก

Here we are, just a few days into November, and this month brings two things that are especially meaningful to our community: COPD Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month!

I think these two go hand in hand beautifully.

Living with COPD can bring its share of challenges, and sometimes it's the little things that make the biggest difference. Someone helping with groceries, lending a hand around the house, going along to an appointment, or simply understanding when breathing takes a little more effort.

And caregiving has its challenges, too. So much of what caregivers do happens quietly, behind the scenes. Let's not forget that caregivers need care, too! They have their own worries and days when a little encouragement or a chance to recharge can mean the world.

These two awareness months give us a wonderful opportunity to help others better understand what living with COPD and caring for someone really looks like.

๐Ÿงก So here's something I'd love for us to talk about today!

๐Ÿ If you're living with COPD, what's one little thing that makes your day easier or helps you feel more independent?

๐Ÿ If you're a caregiver, what's something you've learned or wish more people understood?

๐Ÿ And for everyone, what's one thing you'd like others to better understand about COPD or caregiving?

Sometimes sharing a little of what we've learned can make a big difference for someone else.

Here's to a November filled with learning, understanding, awareness, and a whole lot of caring! ๐Ÿงก๐Ÿ‚

12 hours ago

Caroline West Virginia State Captain

Caroline West Virginia State Captainanswered the question Portable nebulizer

I sometimes use one.
Hoejams also answered the question Hoejams also answered the question

1 hour ago

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

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question New PFT results

I have not been able to see PFTs. Asthma is always a possibility- but there are several other things that can have similar presentations ( vocal cord dysfunction, GERD, heart issues, etc.). Hope you get some answers!
Pnallydas23 also answered the question Pnallyand 1 other also answered the question

3 hours ago

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

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question PFT results

I could not see any results

3 hours ago

Patty M.

Patty M.

My name is Patty. I am considering purchasing a SMARTvest, for my husband, to help him break up his mucus. Have any of you used a SMARTvest? If so, what were the results? Thanks!

5 hours ago

Ken Benson-California Lung Health Advocate and State Captain

Ken Benson-California Lung Health Advocate and State CaptainHelp PCORI (Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute) identify high-priority evidence gaps that could be addressed through patient-centered CER ( comparative effectiveness research) and could help people make informed healthcare decisions.
https://www.pcori.org/about/procurement-opportunities/research-support-funding/request-information-call-evidence-needs-patient-centered-comparative-clinical-effectiveness-research

Request for Information: Call for Evidence Needs for Patient-Centered Comparative Clinical Effectiveness Research

Every day, people across America and those who care for them confront health and healthcare challenges and often lack the information they need to make health decisions that reflect their needs and preferences. Patient-centered CER compares the benefits and harms of different healthcare options, …

6 hours ago

Pnally

Pnallyanswered the question E-Cigarettes: Did you quit smoking using these?

E-cigarettes, aka vaping, did help me to quite smoking, but I became a long term user of Jule brand. After about 2-3 years quite that habit with Zyn pods. Now about 10 years since I touched a cigarette.
Big PigAnonymousCape Codderand 15 others also answered the question Big Pigand 17 others also answered the question

14 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

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

๐Ÿ‚AUTUMN SPINACH SALAD๐Ÿ‚Salad:1 cup pecan halves2 tbsp. pure maple syrup 1/8 tsp. salt Half of a medium red onion, very thinly sliced 8 ounces baby spinach leaves2 of any of these: honeyscrisp apples, Fuji apples, gala apples, red pears, cored...

14 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Tuesday, friends! 
SPREAD THE WORD! If you know, you know. But, for those who don't know, spreading the word helps to educate those people. Many people are unaware that COPD exists! Hard to believe, but it's true! The more people we encourage to visit our website, the more the word gets out there! Educate! Advocate! Stand Strong! November is COPD Awareness Month! ๐Ÿ”ธ๏ธ๐Ÿ”ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ”ธ๏ธ

18 hours ago

Big Pig

Big Piganswered the question Getting a nicotine fix with gum or a patch this month?

I have been off cigarettes for 14 months. When I get the urge, I use the coconut infused nicotine pouches.
Dinna25Bill Clark - Community Manager also answered the question Dinna25and 1 other also answered the question

20 hours ago

Pnally

Pnallyasked the question: PFT results

PFT

23 hours ago

Pnally

Pnallyasked the question: New PFT results

Itโ€™s been about two years since my first post. New PFT results look good and recent LDCT still indicates minimal emphysema. However, I experience, as best I can describe, an uncomfortable chest tightness and somewhat constricted feeling. I donโ€™t have …

23 hours ago

Amanda*08

Amanda*08Hi everyone 
Have a question.
In March I was told that I was at 28% lung function and would need a transplant.
This August I took another pft and am at 42% on my fev1. What are the chances to see this improve to maybe 50% or 55% after being smoke free for months? Can your lung function improve that much?
Thank you! 

1 day ago

ML1977!

ML1977!Has anyone here ever tried this product? I ordered it from Amazon but have not tried it yet because of the mixed reviews I have read. If anyone is familiar with this or happens to know anything about other supplements or devices that would help me breathe I would greatly appreciate any help. I am at Gold level E COPD less than 3 yrs after diagnosis. I can't walk across the room without becoming breathless and can't walk across the yard without breathlessness becoming out right Air Hunger. This is terrifying and I am begging for any suggestions from you. 

1 day ago

ML1977!

ML1977!

Hi. My name is Allison and I am sorta new to this community. Although I first opened my account several months ago, I have not been active and have just found it in my emails inbox. As my COPD appears to be progressing more rapidly than I would have thought possible I have decided to log in and try to find some answers from those who may understand 

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainYay! I received my proclamation from the governor of Connecticut! ๐Ÿคฉ

1 day ago

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

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question There is a new article out touting a vicks mixture to cure COPD.

I have not seen anything and would be a bit suspect of anything promoting a "cure". Many researchers are working towards this- but the work proceeds very slowly.
DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain also answered the question DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain also answered the question

1 day ago

KimStarling

KimStarlingasked the question: There is a new article out touting a vicks mixture to cure COPD.

There's a new article out touting a vicks mixture to cure COPD. Anyone have real time knowledge.

1 day ago

COPD Foundation Website Notifications

COPD Foundation Website Notificationsadded a new article Delaney Fox

Welcome our newest COPD Foundation Captain!

1 day ago

Phyliss DiLorenzo NJ State Captain

Phyliss DiLorenzo NJ State Captainanswered the question Check-in: How Are You Getting Involved for COPD Awareness Month?

I will be distributing kits at all 3 Jersey City Breathing Center locations. I have ordered a new COPD awareness hoodie (orange is my era), and may also wear my orange rain jacket depending on the weather.
Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State CaptainDebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain also answered the question Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captainand 1 other also answered the question

1 day ago

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State CaptainHi - I woke up this morning to a flash flood warning.  So far, we've had 12.9 inches of rain in the last 24 hours. and it's still coming down!!  I'll post a few pictures of the lake that I live on.  It's run over its banks and my screened in porch has 5 inches of water.  Because Ebony's litter box is on the porch, luckily I had a cardboard box and I waded out to get the cat litter jug. I set it up inside and she's such a good kitty that she used it right away.๐Ÿ˜


The first picture is what my deck looks like normally.

1 day ago

Community Announcements

Community Announcementsadded a new article Landmarks across the globe "Go Orange" for COPD Awareness Month

Miami (November 2, 2026) - In honor of COPD Awareness Month in November, 79 landmarks across the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom will illuminate orange to raise awareness of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

More than 30 million Americans are affected by COPD, yet approximately half remain undiagnosed. COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, can be caused by genetic factors and exposure to lung irritants, including tobacco smoke and air pollution.

"Each landmark illuminated in orange represents an opportunity to spark awareness, encourage conversations, and help more people recognize the signs of COPD," said Jean Wright, M.D., MBA, CEO of the COPD Foundation. "With millions of people living with undiagnosed COPD, increasing awareness is critical. These orange lights serve as a powerful reminder that earlier diagnosis, advances in treatment, and continued research can help people breathe better and live healthier lives."

1 day ago

Kalli Mago (COPDF Communications Coordinator)

Kalli Mago (COPDF Communications Coordinator)asked the question: Education Check-in: How Are You Getting Involved for COPD Awareness Month?

November is COPD Awareness Month! This month is a time to spread awareness, share your story, and show support for everyone affected by COPD. Whether you are a person living with COPD, a caregiver, a friend, a family member, or a health care …

1 day ago

London Dan

London Dan

Hi. I am a 58 year old man from London. I had a recent scan on my chest to investigate a small blood clot that was coughed up. 
 A nurse from the Respiratory clinic at a very famous London hospital told me โ€œgood news, you donโ€™t have lung cancer Daniel. BUT you have mild emphysemaโ€.


That was that. Because I told him that I donโ€™t really have any symptoms apart from coughing up white phlegm when jogging he said Iโ€™m not being referred anywhere.


I came very close to doing something very stupid that weekend. Talk about leaving you in the wind!


So I donโ€™t know what to do. Apparently I donโ€™t need meds. Coincidentally I had booked a stop vaping seminar for just a few days after I was told the above and have now been nicotine free for 11 days. I stopped smoking about 15 years ago but have been a very heavy vaper ever since (apart from a 14 month period vape free).
 Unfortunately , I have an added complication and probable cause of my condition (please donโ€™t judge me on this. I promise, Iโ€™ve never harmed anyone else either financially or otherwise in the pursuit of them but I used illicit drugs for sporadic periods and I think that has greatly added to my issue. I mightโ€™ve even gotten away with it had it not been for the drugs. Though I doubt it.
 My brother has COPD. My 2nd cousin. His mother had it. My father had asbestosis. My fatherโ€™s uncle also had lung disease. I guess we must be genetically predisposed to it.


Can anyone tell me what I should do? I take lots of supplements . Should I stop taking them? I read that taking too many antioxidants can have the opposite effect and cause pro-oxidation. 
 
Iโ€™m on a bp drug and a beta blocker (I suffer from anxiety). But no other meds. 


Would you recommend pulmonary rehab programmes?

1 day ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments6 comment(s)
  • Caroline West Virginia State CaptainWe don't judge here, so you need to throw any guilt you have to the curb.  We all do dumb things at times.   I would suggest that you have the tests that brydy has suggested.


    You can live a full and long life with very few consequences if you eat well, get plenty of rest, exercise and keep a positive mental attitude.  I am proof of that.  I will be 83 in March.1 day ago
  • JeanO53Hi London Danโ€‹! Welcome to 360Social.
    I'll echo Caroloine...  Rest assured you won't be judged for things you've done in the past. If it were possible, many of us would like to go back and change at least a few things. Instead of judgement, you will find wonderful support and great information.1 day ago
  • Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State CaptainHi London Danโ€‹   Welcome to 360Social.  I agree with getting tested for Alpha-1.  With all of your family members who have or had COPD it's an easy test and might give you some information to take back to your doctor.  Also, CT scans are definitely not a definitive way to diagnose COPD, so please ask for that referral and have a pulmonary function test.  


    And congratulations on being nicotine free!!  That's a  big accomplishment!1 day ago
DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

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

๐ŸฝARUGULA SALAD๐Ÿฝ6 cups arugula1/4 cup golden raisins 1/4 cup sliced almonds 3 tbsp. olive oil 1 tbsp. lemon juice 1/4 tsp. salt1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1/3 cup shaved OR shredded Parmesan cheese In a large bowl, combine the...

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Monday! Yes! We are your support squad! We are always here for you! 
Please help us to spread the word. ๐Ÿ—ฃ November is COPD Awareness Month. Tell your family and friends about our website. The more the merrier! ๐Ÿงก Wishing everyone an awesome, easy breathing day! ๐Ÿ”ธ๏ธ๐Ÿ”ถ๏ธ๐Ÿ”ธ๏ธ

1 day ago

Caroline West Virginia State Captain

Caroline West Virginia State Captainanswered the question Check-in: How Do I Avoid COPD Flare-Ups?

Karen brings up a good point. The National Park people do controlled burns as well, so that may affect me at some point.
Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State CaptainAli AbdjabbarDebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain 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 CaptainHello, friends! We took our Boxer, Hazel Madeline out for an early Sunday drive. 
There are a great many empty boat slips as the weather turns cooler. ๐Ÿ‚

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.