COPD
Canadian Lung Health Test
If you are over 40 and smoke or used to smoke, you may already have COPD.
If you answer yes to any of these questions, please review your symptoms with your physician.
- Do you cough regularly?
- Do you cough up phlegm regularly?
- Do even simple chores make you short of breath?
- Do you wheeze when you exert yourself (exercise, go up stairs)?
- Do you get many colds and do your colds usually last longer than your friends colds?
Pulmonary Rehab
Pulmonary rehabilitation has been proven to improve breathing for those with COPD and other lung conditions.
It is offered at 3 different locations in Winnipeg. Those with COPD, emphysema, chronic bronchitis and pulmonary fibrosis attend twice a week for eight weeks. There is no cost to attend.
You will work with a team of health professionals that include: Respirologists, Dietitians, Occupation Therapists, Pharmacists, Physical Therapists, Kinesiologists, Rehabilitation Assistant, Respiratory Therapists, and Social Workers.
Ask your provider if this is the right program for you.
COPD Action Plan
We recommend that all people with COPD should have an “Action Plan”. An Action Plan gives you direction for how to manage your COPD when you notice your symptoms getting worse.
If you do not have a COPD Action Plan, please ask your doctor at your next visit.
If this Action Plan conflicts with what your doctor has advised you to do please follow the doctor’s instructions.
If you are uncertain of what to do or you believe your COPD is out of control please see your family doctor.
Using your inhaler
As many as 50% of people may not be using their inhalers correctly. This could include breathing too fast or too slow, covering a vent hole, not holding your breath after inhaling, not waiting long enough between sprays, using the wrong cleaning method and more.
It is a good idea to bring your inhaler to your annual visit and demonstrate your technique. Small changes in how you use your inhaler could mean better control of your COPD (and less medication waste).
The Lung Association has developed videos showing good inhaler techique.