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COPD, Fatigue, and What You Can Do About It

If you or someone you know suffers from COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), then read on.

The World Health Organization shows that death due to lung disease is currently the leading killer among people, topping cancer, heart disease, and even stroke (this is when all lung diseases such as COPD, tuberculosis, lung cancer, and lower respiratory infections are taken into account). And what's more, most people lack the understanding of how to manage lung disease.

A study published in June showed patients with COPD who suffered fatigue were more than 10 times likely to be hospitalized than COPD patients who didn't report fatigue.

The study, completed in Australia, followed 100 consecutive COPD patients over the course of roughly two years. Those patients who reported fatigue showed a 10-fold increase in the risk of being hospitalized compared to patients who didn't report fatigue in the same time period.

Research has also indicated that patients who have COPD are unaware that moderate exercise, like swimming, can actually help improve symptoms such as breathlessness.

June 27th was World Spirometry Day. A simple test such as a spirometry done at your physician's office is a great indicator of lung function and can help you better manage your own health. And yet most patients have never had a spirometry done. If you have COPD or even asthma, talk to your doctor about scheduling a spirometry. And also be sure to have a candid discussion about exercise and how it could help moderate your symptoms.
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Steve in Orlando on :

According to a recent study conducted by the University of Sydney, it appears that practicing Tai Chi could be a very beneficial option for COPD patients. I was quite intrigued about the results of this recent study.Apparently, the participants that performed regular Tai Chi during the study had improved exercise capacity. This could help significantly reduce the risk of exacerbations and hospitalization.

Pro2 on :

Thanks for the comment Steve! We read that article, too, and actually posted it on our FaceBook page: http://www.facebook.com/PRO2LLC
We're definitely excited about the potential benefits for COPD patients!

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