3 myths about COPD

Most people have heard of COPD but aren't sure what this common lung disease actually is. Robin Miller, MD, describes COPD and how it can be managed.

Transcript

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[MUSIC PLAYING] But in the United States, COPD is one of the main reasons why people with a chronic health condition stop working.

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It's the second leading cause after heart disease.

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Hi. I'm Dr. Miller. Could you or a loved one have COPD and not even know it? COPD, that's chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder,

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is one of the most common lung diseases. Here are three common myths about COPD. The first one is that COPD is a rare condition.

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In fact, about 15 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD. And another 12 million may have COPD without knowing it.

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COPD is the third leading cause of death among people over 55 in the United States. Another common misconception is that COPD

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doesn't cause disability. But in the United States, COPD is one of the main reasons why people with a chronic health

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condition stop working. It's the second leading cause after heart disease. Finally, there's the myth that medication is the only way

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to treat COPD. While medication can be important for people with COPD, other strategies can also help.

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A pulmonary rehab program that includes diet, exercise, breathing therapy, and stress management can help keep your symptoms in check.

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The good news is that while COPD can't be cured, it can be managed to prevent symptoms from getting worse.

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I'm Dr. Miller. For more ways to breathe better, check out all our smart tips.