Health Tip: Help Prevent COPD

(HealthDay News) -- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a general term for the narrowing of the small bronchi, the smaller airways that carry air to the lungs. The two prime diseases that make up COPD are chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

The American Lung Association suggests these steps to help protect you from COPD:

  • Don't smoke, and quit if you currently smoke.
  • Stay away from secondhand smoke, and don't allow other people to smoke in your home.
  • Avoid exposure to lung-damaging chemicals.
  • Take steps to help promote clean air in your community.
  • Schedule a visit with your doctor if you suspect that you may have COPD, particularly if you are 45 or older and have a history of smoking.

    • Date Published: 01/07/2011

    Related Articles

    Search Articles

    Antibiotics Probably Won't Ease Your Cough, Even If Infection is Bacterial: Study

    Saltwater Drops in Nose Could Shorten Kids' Colds

    FDA Proposes Ban on a 'Useless' Decongestant, Phenylephrine

    How To Fight Common Wintertime Respiratory Viruses

    Antibiotics Probably Won't Ease Your Cough, Even If Infection is Bacterial: Study

    Can Zinc Really Shorten a Cold?

    Bird Flu Virus Stays Active on Cow Milking Equipment for at Least One Hour

    'Dual Mutant' Seasonal Flu Virus Could Make Some Treatments Ineffective

    Universal Flu Vaccine Blocks Infection in Mice

    Could OTC Nasal Sprays Ease Colds & Flu and Cut Antibiotic Use?

    FDA Proposes Ban on a 'Useless' Decongestant, Phenylephrine