COPD360social welcomes new member ANNIE ERKER who joins 65,654 current members of our community. Weโ€™re glad you're here!

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

โ˜€ This week's forecast is bringing some serious summer heat to many parts of the country. Even places that don't usually see temperatures this high are feeling it.

If you live with COPD, bronchiectasis, NTM lung disease, or you're caring for someone who does, this is a good week for a gentle reminder: your health comes first.

When it's hot and humid, breathing can become more difficult because the air feels heavier and your body has to work harder to cool itself. If today turns out to be one of those days where your lungs are telling you to slow down...listen to them. โค

Here are a few simple ways to help make the week a little easier:

๐Ÿ’ง Stay hydrated and sip water throughout the day.
โ„ Spend time in air conditioning whenever possible, especially during the hottest hours.
๐ŸŒณ If you need to be outside, try to go early in the morning or later in the evening, and look for shade.
๐Ÿ’จ Pace yourself. There's no prize for pushing through the heat.
๐Ÿ’Š Keep your medications and rescue inhaler nearby, and take them as prescribed.
๐ŸŒก๏ธ If the heat is making your breathing worse or something doesn't feel right, don't wait too long to reach out to your healthcare provider.
๐Ÿค Caregivers, don't forget to take care of yourselves, too. Heat can wear everyone down.

Remember, it's okay to let the weather set the pace. Staying cool and protecting your lungs is always a good choice. ๐Ÿ’™

What's your favorite way to stay cool on hot days? Whether it's a cool drink, a shady spot, an indoor hobby, or another summer tip, share it below. Your idea might help someone else breathe a little easier this week.

20 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Tuesday, everyone! When you spread positivity, you are spreading sunshine! ๐ŸŒž Keep on thinking good thoughts! ๐Ÿ˜Š Strive for happiness in your life! ๐Ÿ˜€ Keep on smiling! ๐Ÿ˜ƒ

2 hours ago

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captainanswered the question Do any of you h

I have a FitBit which records my steps, my heart rate, my breahing rate, my oxygen saturation, the quality of my sleep, and might do a few other things, but that's pretty much all I check. But, I do not rely on the FitBit's oxygen saturation number - I …
GaryLynnsif1215JeanO53and 1 other also answered the question GaryLynnand 3 others also answered the question

9 hours ago

das23

das23answered the question Does this mean it's getting worse

Agree with the others--80s is something you need to see your doctor about
WildebeestCaroline West Virginia State Captainbrydyand 1 other also answered the question Wildebeestand 3 others also answered the question

11 hours ago

George Trump

George Trump

Are there any natural remedies for copd ?

13 hours ago

George Trump

George Trump

Coping with a flare up

13 hours ago

ChrissyLu

ChrissyLuanswered the question Flying-Do I need to rent a portable machine?

My husband's on 4 liters O2 & the most recent USA guidelines from the airlines (2026) states he must have access to enough O2 to match flight time plus another 1/2 flight-time worth to board a plane. At 4 lt, just the time in the airport can utilize …
K STEELEmuddleagedJean IA State Captainand 5 others also answered the question K STEELEand 7 others also answered the question

14 hours ago

What's not taken

What's not takenasked the question: Do any of you h

Do any of you have an Apple watch or Fitbit, etc to monitor your copd?

15 hours ago

Jamie Jarrard (COPDF Sr. Communications Specialist)

Jamie Jarrard (COPDF Sr. Communications Specialist)answered the question Check-in: How Summer Heat and Humidity Can Affect COPD

This is so timely!
HIcopd - Hawaii State CaptainAurielWildebeestand 4 others also answered the question HIcopd - Hawaii State Captainand 6 others also answered the question

17 hours ago

Ken Benson-California Lung Health Advocate and State Captain

Ken Benson-California Lung Health Advocate and State CaptainMonday Morning Music.
Start your week with a smile on your face.
Tony Bennett and Count Basie                                                                                                                                                   "Are you Having any Fun"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifWg9lGWIag

20 hours ago

brydy

brydy

Today begins whats predicted to be one of the hottest weeks we have ever had. Canada Day is Wednesday & will top out at 49c (120F) today will be 41. 
I am concerned about the animals, my farm is a rescue with many large animals that will be exposed to this heat for a prolonged period. people too esp given its a holiday. I know a lot of you guys are heading into hot weather as well, hope we can all manage through it ok. its tough on our breathing for sure. stay safe everyone. 

20 hours ago

Gwhite

Gwhiteasked the question: Does this mean it's getting worse

Hi, my name is Christina. I was diagnosed with COPD six months ago after a pulmonary breathing test. I was diagnosed with mild emphasema with a 76%. lung capacity, my doctor continues to tell me that it's not that bad. But yet, in the last 6 months, it …

21 hours ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragon

Gotta say Brydy,,,hip hop l certainly did not see that one coming.Good for you.lol Canadians go figure eh.

21 hours ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragonHope everyone receives the day they deserve today with big deep breaths and a brain that can see more happy then sad.Mental health is just as important as physical and sometimes far harder to achieve.

21 hours ago

Gwhite

Gwhite

Hello, I'm new here my name is Christina. I was diagnosed with COPD (mild emphysema) 6 months ago, I am 51 years of age. 

21 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainThis one goes out to all of our awesome members! ๐Ÿงก๐Ÿ’™

21 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

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

๐ŸŸฅโฌœ๏ธBโ€ขBโ€ขQ SAUCEโฌœ๏ธ๐ŸŸฅ1 1/2 cups ketchup 1/2 cup cider vinegar 1/2 cup water 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar 1/4 cup soy sauce 2 tbsp. yellow mustard 1 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. onion powder 1 tsp. cumin1 tsp. smoked paprikaGood grind black...

22 hours ago

carolyn johnson

carolyn johnson

Hello everyone  my name is carolyn and ive had copd since 2014. I had 5 flare up in 5 months . Im trying to figure out what should  i do next i walk a hour 3 days a week and still working. I been very depressed about these  hospitals  and doctors visit can anyone dealing with the same thing give me advice. Im 54 and feeling like i wont make it to see my grandkids get older and will soon be on oxygen.  Please reach out and pray for me today

22 hours ago

carolyn johnson

carolyn johnson

๐Ÿ˜”

23 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainGood morning, and happy Marvelous Monday, all! 
Wishing you a day filled with sunshine and smiles! ๐ŸŒž ๐Ÿ˜€

1 day ago

Janice Jones

Janice Jones

Hello all- new member here from Minnesota.  My husband, age 76, was just diagnosed with possible COPD after a  bout of pneumonia.  He's had breathing issues for a while so this may explain that.  He is very anxious.  As his caregiver and wife I am hoping this group will help us in our journey.  He sees his doctor later this week for more testing, etc.  So will learn more about his exact diagnosis over the next few weeks.   

1 day ago

Taryn Tarver

Taryn Tarveranswered the question I am Wondering if anyone is using the injection of dupixent and if so is it helpful for better breat

finally approved by my insurance and will be delivered tomorrow! Excited to see if it will make a difference
HIcopd - Hawaii State CaptainGAnneBare also answered the question HIcopd - Hawaii State Captainand 2 others also answered the question

1 day ago

KAIF

KAIF

๐Ÿ˜ŠI am patient of COPD emphysema 3rd stage with big air. For the First Time I felt like now only few breaths when doctors reported Showed severe paraseptal and centrilobular pulmonary emphysema Fvc 76 FEV146FEV1/VC 47.54, But I am feeling OK with regular walking 6KM to 8KM daily in 2 sessions. 

1 day ago

JeanO53

JeanO53More energy!  Yes, please!
Yesterday I spent the afternoon walking/hiking around Wehr Nature Center, a part of our largest county park - 640 acres.  I've wanted to spend some time there but worried that I wouldn't have enough energy to really enjoy it.
.. It was a beautiful day in an amazingly beautiful place.  One of the trails is 1.5 miles around a small lake with water lilies around the shoreline.  Mid-way is a small waterfall.  I was determined to make it to the waterfall.  I made it there and sat in the shade for awhile before heading back. 
.. Tired and hungry, I felt this great sense of accomplishment.  What a great feeling!

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Sunday, friends!


Keep a smile on your face
You'll always be in the right place
Plenty of sunshine headed your way
That positive outlook is here to stay
Lots of hope and wonderful things 
Are what our awesome website brings
๐Ÿงก๐Ÿ’™๐Ÿงก๐Ÿ’™

2 days ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

โ˜• Happy Sunday, everyone!

As if Sunday coffee wasn't enough to wake us up... today also happens to be Tau Day (6.28)!

Now, if you're scratching your head wondering, "What's Tau?" don't worryโ€”you are definitely not alone. ๐Ÿ˜„

Tau (ฯ„) is a math constant that's twice the value of pi, so naturally it got us thinking...

If today is all about twice as much, let's have a little fun.

Things we'd LOVE twice as much of...
๐Ÿ˜Š Energy.
๐Ÿ˜‚ Laughter.
๐ŸŒค๏ธ Good breathing days.
๐Ÿค— Encouragement.
โค Time with family and friends.
โ˜• (Maybe) one more cup of coffee.

Things we'll happily leave at just one...
๐Ÿ˜ฎโ€๐Ÿ’จ Shortness of breath.
๐Ÿฅต Humidity.
๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ Pollen.
๐Ÿ›’ Carrying groceries in one trip.
๐Ÿฉบ Doctor appointments.
๐Ÿซข Oxygen tubing getting wrapped around every chair in the house!

And here's one thing we'd gladly take twice as much of...

๐Ÿ’™ The kindness, wisdom, and support that fill this community every single day.

Whether you're newly diagnosed or you've been living with COPD for years, it's amazing what happens when people encourage one another, celebrate the little victories, and remind each other that no one has to do this alone.

So here's our Sunday question...

If Tau Day could magically give you twice as much of ONE thing today, what would you choose?

More energy?
More patience?
More laughs?
More time with the grandkids?
More sunshine?
More naps? (No judgment! ๐Ÿ˜„)

We're looking forward to reading your answers. Wishing each of you a wonderful Sundayโ€”and thank you for making COPD360social such a special place to spend it? ๐Ÿ’™

2 days ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Saturday is Helen Keller Day. ๐Ÿ’™

Helen Keller once said, "Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it."

Her life reminds us that our circumstances don't have to define our future.

Living with COPD, bronchiectasis, NTM lung disease, or caring for someone who does often means learning to adapt. You may have had to change routines, discover new ways to do everyday things, or find strength you never realized you had. That isn't giving upโ€”it's growing.

Progress doesn't always come in giant leaps. Sometimes it's remembering to celebrate the small victories: completing your airway clearance, taking a walk, making it to pulmonary rehab, asking for help, trying something new, or simply getting through a difficult day with hope for tomorrow.

One of the beautiful things about this community is seeing how often those small victories are shared. Every tip, every word of encouragement, and every story of perseverance reminds someone else that they aren't alone. Together, we learn from one another, lift each other up, and find new ways to keep living full and meaningful lives.

Whatever challenge you're facing today, don't underestimate the power of one small step forward. Those small steps have a way of becoming remarkable journeys.

๐Ÿ’™ We'd love to hear from you: What's one obstacle you've overcomeโ€”or one new way you've learned to keep enjoying life despite the challenges? Your story could be exactly what someone else needs to read today.

2 days ago

  • DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainWell, I have learned to overcome going out in public with my chronic illness. I cannot open the windows in my home because of the triggers and toxins where I live. My pulmonologist has told me there very well may come a day when I cannot leave my home. 
    I have COPD, very severe asthma, and very severe scent intolerance. My immune system is way down there on the scale. 
    I have learned to wear a filtered RZ mask, disposable gloves, long sleeves, and my feet are covered with shoes and socks. 
    I am still living the good life. I take precautions. I "think through before I do."
    Life was meant to enjoy. Yes, there is a bright spot in every day! ๐Ÿ˜€
    Managing my condition properly is extremely important to me. I stick to my routine, and that works for me.
    Most importantly, never give up hope, and keep those positive vibes flowing! ๐Ÿ˜Š2 days ago
Pattypat

Pattypat

Was just diagnosed with moderate COPD. Could not get an appointment with a Pulmologist until September. So I have to go to my Internal Medicind Doctor. Who after a week of me emailing called me in an inhaler. I had a flare-up 2 weeks before I was diagnosed and it was terrible. So according to the American Lung association I should be prepared for a flare-up with Prednisone and a rescue inhaler. My Doctor refuses to prescribe them. She said I would have to come into the office during my flare-up. and that's impossible. Not sure where to turn.

2 days ago

  • NewestOldest
  • WildebeestI am in the UK. I have moderate COPD diagnosed since 2011. I was hospitalised with pneumonia a couple of years ago but even then I was not given steroids, just ABX. Our doctors here often don't prescribe rescue packs, especially not in the earlier period after diagnosis as the patient has not got used to living with their symptoms. It can be difficult to judge when to start a rescue pack. In the UK a rescue pack would typically contain antibiotics and steroids. Not an extra inhaler - but we are given rescue inhalers (salbutamol or the like) unless the daily inhaler can be used extra in case of breathing difficulty. That depends on the brand you take daily. Over here they will at least give you a priority appointment if you have COPD and maybe a doctor would be prepared to prescribe by telephone if you are really feeling bad? With a bit of luck you will be OK until September and maybe the pulmonologist will be happy to give you a rescue pack. 2 days ago
  • DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainMay I ask why it is impossible for you to go into your doctorโ€™s office during a flare-up, or exacerbation? 
    Could you do a zoom meeting for your appointment?
    Having a rescue inhaler is extremely important.  
    Where I live, I have the option to visit an Urgent Care Center if I cannot see my pulmonologist at that time. 
    Wishing you the best! I hope you'll have easy breathing days! 2 days ago
  • HIcopd - Hawaii State CaptainI agree that many doctors and other providers want to see the patient to determine the best course of treatment. Here we can try to be seen by our provider or go to urgent care or ER.  Having the ability to do telehealth visits can help when transportation is a problem as well (even though the provider canโ€™t examine you in person).2 days ago
Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragon

Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend and is going to make the most of it.House is still and empty at night,lots of reflection time with wife gone. Daughter had to cancel for now will fly out later this week,,just me and my dog talking life.Wife had surgery yesterday,not only broken hip but leg fracture above knee and also hand,so she really did a number when she fell. Going to get up for a visit sometime today someway.


I wanted to take a minute and share my you tube music Channel with the group in the hopes some of you can find a song or songs that can help give inspiration hope or just be a back drop through your day.Music has been such a large force in my life since ten when l discovered my first guitar. Had at least ten thousand jam sessions with friends and family and old band members from the front porch 
 to music room,kitchen patio.
You tube music my streaming service is always on in the background in our house and a friend over visiting a couple of weeks ago was commenting on many songs he had not heard before, l had it set up for private use for many years but at that time changed it over to public domain, able to be used by all.
Lots of easy listening, accoustic in a few different jaundras that should offer something to a broad range of listening tastes.


Anyhow its there to try if you would like to,they always offer a free month tryout,, to many commercials otherwise.


Address is old dogs listening,look for the hillbilly meme scroll through,play and hopefully enjoy.


Big breaths,happy thoughts and smiles for all.

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Saturday, friends! Remember, the little things in life are the big things! 
Things such as seeing your favorite backyard bird at the feeder, seeing a flower in full bloom, your first sip of coffee in the morning, and hearing your cat purr while being pet!
Enjoy your favorite little things! They count for a whole lot! 
Have a wonderful day! 

3 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.