In this series of videos, Duke experts talk about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) -- what it is, symptoms of the disease, how to stay healthy, and treatment options.
COPD is a leading cause of death in the U.S. People with the disease can have chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both, but in its early stages, COPD may go undetected. That's why it's important to visit your doctor regularly and to stop smoking. Here, Duke pulmonologist Lingye Chen, MD discusses what COPD is, symptoms to look for, how COPD is diagnosed, and how to manage the condition.
Being diagnosed with COPD does not have to mean living a restricted life. When people are invested in their own care, they can halt the progress of this potentially deadly disease and feel better than they have in years. Here, Duke transplant pulmonologist Katherine Young, MD, discusses how people with COPD can work with their doctors and on their own to improve their health and quality of life.
Stopping smoking is the only way to halt the progression of COPD and preserve the lung function you have left. Taking part in a smoking cessation program that incorporates FDA-approved medications, group and individual check-in sessions, and mindfulness training can increase your chances of quitting smoking for good. Here, Emily Walter, a smoking cessation nurse practitioner at Duke, talks about the challenges of quitting, what to look for in a smoking cessation program, and how to set yourself up for success.