Chronic Bronchitis is a first step toward impending emphysema/COPD. It often results from "ordinary" chest infections (colds, flu). Folks with chronic bronchitis know that every, or nearly every, cold they get will "go straight to the lungs". With proper care it need not lead to COPD. In a COPD patient chronic bronchitis contributes to the "gunk" that we spit up regularly (there's no pretty way to say it)

Chronic Asthma is the third constituent of COPD. Not all COPD patients have asthma, and most certainly most asthma patients do not have COPD. But many of us suffer from it greatly. Already sick, our airways are easily constricted by all manner of airborne nasties. It is why we carry our inhalers. Some authorities do not consider asthma a component of COPD because unlike emphysema and chronic bronchitis, asthma can be reversed.

Shortness Of Breath after normal-to-light exertion is an important sign and something that needs medical attention.

A lingering, or even constant cough. If a cough lingers long after a lung infection has cleared up something is wrong.

A history of lung problems. Chest colds don't clear up like they do for other folks...they linger. Maybe you've had flu several times, or worse, pneumonia.

Other family members have been diagnosed with emphysema. Perhaps your family carries the gene responsible for Alpha1 Antitrypsin Deficiency which is a brand of emphysema brought on by an enzyme deficiency and which may be contracted even though the individual has never smoked.

Where To Go From Here
Persons with COPD/Emphysema can most certainly lead productive, fulfilling lives. How we handle our disease, and its effects, is very important.

If we sit back and let it take charge, then it will. We may decline rather rapidly; our spirits suffer; normal activities become major obstacles.

However, if we take charge then we can dramatically affect the progress of the disease, learn that we can still lead quality lives, and be proud. At whatever stage of the disease, this simple approach can make an important difference.

Here's How
These web pages are but a beginning. But through them you can start the journey to improving your life and your spirits - in a significant way. There are many excellent COPD sites on the net. Our web links page can be your jumping off place to these valuable resources.

Join One Or More Of Our Programs
Our internet mailing list (e-mail) is an excellent way to stay in touch with other COPD/emphysema patients and care givers. We are patients, some with mild lung problems, some with quite severe. We are also care-givers and friends of COPD patients. We are sons and daughters as well as health care professionals. If the volume of mail inherent in an online support mailing list is too much, or if you just want additional information then you might look into one of our other programs which include a Caregivers Online Support List, COPD Newsletter, Buddy Groups, SmokeNoMore Program, chatroom with scheduled chats, a link page with only top notch information which has been reviewed by our staff, and a listing of member pages which may be of interest. So, if you are interested in any of our programs, click here for a trip to the table of contents at the top of the page and choose what suits you.

The list began in January 1997 when six or seven people were solicited to participate in this experiment in information sharing. By our first anniversary we had grown to 267 members. We now have members on every continent except Antarctica.We share knowledge of the things that have helped us, and the things that have hurt us. We stay informed regarding treatments and medications. But, most of all, we give one another the encouragement and support that is so important to our lives. Many of us become very dear friends. If you are interested in becoming a subscriber please read both the explanation of what to expect as a list member as well as our posting guidelines and then join us. We hope you will introduce yourself to us soon.

Financial Base
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COPD-Support, Inc.
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