If you have COPD, the CMO Care Team can help.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a general term used to describe certain types of lung diseases that make it difficult to breathe. The two most common types of COPD are chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Currently, more than 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD.

Smoking is the main cause of COPD, but second-hand exposure to cigarette smoke, work-related dusts and chemicals (vapors, irritants, fumes), and indoor air pollution also contribute to respiratory symptoms and COPD.

COPD is a slow, progressive disease that leads to a gradual loss of lung function. In later stages of the disease, the heart may be affected as well as other body organs. COPD is a serious condition, but with proper medical care, diet and exercise, symptoms and complications can be successfully treated and managed.

Working with your doctor, your CMO Nurse Care Manager can:

• Help review your current health status and your medicines
• Provide you with information about your condition
• Put together a personal treatment plan
• Help you learn and use self-care and self-monitoring tools
• Teach you how to monitor your health and take care of yourself
• Help you recognize possible complications
• Provide you with tips and information about life-style choices
• Call you to help keep your treatment plan on track
• Follow-up after you come home from the hospital
• Tell you about support groups and workshops

Here are some links to more information on COPD:
American Lung Association
British Lung Foundation
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
COPD International
National Emphysema Foundation

All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues.