Here are some constructive
ways you can take control of
your COPD.
Quit Smoking
The single most important thing you
can do to improve your life and health
is quit smoking. This includes all forms
of tobacco:
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Cigarettes
E-cigarettes
Cigars
Pipes
Hookahs
There are more options today than
ever before for the support you need to
overcome a nicotine addiction.
Oral medications may have side
effects. It’s important to discuss these
options with your health-care provider.
When you want to quit smoking, your
best chance for success is with the help
of others. To find smoking cessation
counseling programs and/or support
groups, check your local:
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Hospitals
Nicotine gums
Nicotine lozenges
Nicotine inhalers
Nicotine nasal sprays
There are now oral medications that
can help you control the urge to
smoke:
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Bupropion (Zyban)
Varenicline (Chantix)
• Ask your health-care provider
about pneumonia vaccines. These
vaccines protect against most
common strains of bacteria that
cause common pneumonia types.
• If you think you may have the flu,
see your health-care provider and
get treatment as early as possible.
Flu medications are most effective
if given in the first 48 hours
after symptoms appear. They
are less effective if given later.
Early treatment may shorten your
recovery time.
Community centers
Take advantage of these programs to
gain the support and encouragement
you need to quit smoking for good.
Nicotine replacement options include:
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• Ask your health-care provider
about getting a flu shot every year
at the end of September or early
October. Flu types change every
year and so do the vaccines. A flu
shot one year does not protect you
from getting the flu in subsequent
years. Flu shots have been shown
to be safe in patients with COPD.
They will not cause a flare-up. If
you are allergic to eggs, a flu shot
may not be suitable for you.
Civic groups
Using a product that lessens
the urge to smoke (nicotine
replacement)
Over-the-counter and prescription
nicotine patches
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Libraries
Group or individual counseling
• Germs are most commonly shared
on handrails, doorknobs, shopping
carts – anything that people touch.
Wash your hands often to prevent
the spread of germs. Carry an
alcohol-based hand sanitizer to
use when soap and water aren’t
available.
Health clinics
Your health-care provider can help you.
Start by working with him or her to
choose the option that works best for
you, such as:
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Avoid Getting the Flu or
Pneumonia
Having COPD increases your chances
of getting the flu and other respiratory
infections, including pneumonia.
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Avoid germs. Try to stay away
from people who are sick with a
cold or flu. A cough and sneeze
contain droplets of an infectious
organism. Covering your nose
and mouth reduces droplet
transmission. Ask for people
around you to do the same.
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