COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), also known as Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COLD), is an umbrella term used to describe chronic lung diseases that are characterized by progressive obstruction of the airflow into and out of the lungs and increased shortness of breath. COPD is an insidious disease, which is often not diagnosed until after some of the lung capacity is already lost. Some of the diseases included under the umbrella term include emphysema, chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis and refractory asthma.

Surprising little was actually learned over the past years about COPD. Studies were very limited, however things are improving with some very encouraging studies, clinical trials and research under way for medications and treatments. Now, there is a very active COPD awareness program underway. There is a very long way to go, however.

The good news is that even though it is considered a chronic, debilitating and sometimes fatal disease, it can be managed, controlled and slowed down. We can all lead good and long lives, with a great deal of quality and joy left even after diagnosis. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with COPD, general well-being and prognosis can improve greatly with proper treatment and care.

The most important factors contributing to a longer and healthier lifestyle include, but are not limited to:

	Early detection
	A knowledgeable physician who is proactive in disease management, preferably a pulmonary specialist
	Following your medication regimen faithfully
	Healthy eating habits
	Stopping smoking
	A personal exercise program approved by your physician
	Education about any and all aspects of your disease and its related problems
	Infection prevention to limit exacerbations which can lead to additional lung damage

You are not alone!

	It is estimated that there are currently 12 million people in the United States diagnosed with this disease.
	It is estimated that an additional 12 million or more are still undiagnosed. Many are in the beginning stages with few or minimal symptoms and have not sought health care yet.
	It is predicted that close to 600 million cases could possibly be found worldwide.

Here at COPD International, you will not be alone. This site has been organized and staffed by individuals with COPD, caregivers and other interested individuals. It's primary purpose is to provide a resource for all through interactive support and education.

Here you will find:

	Our main Chat Room is open to all 24 hours a day. People are coming and going all the time. Drop in and visit. It's a great source of support and information.
	Our four communities, each have a Chat Room, as well as a Message Board. Here you can find people with similar experiences -- COPDers, caregivers, teenagers and kids facing the fears, issues and problems associated with dealing on a daily basis with this disease. If your community has no one there when you visit, please drop into the main Chat Room.
	Our message boards throughout the Web site are there for you to ask for and get help and guidance. Your experiences can help others there as well.
	Our List servers, which provide e-mail information and support 24 hours a day.
	Our "Quit Smoking Now" Program (QSN) to help you kick the habit and provides the ongoing support needed to help you stay smoke-free for as long as you need.
	Guidance for your exercise needs.
	Our "Keep in Touch" Program (KIT) for those who live alone. Small groups are formed to check up on each other on a daily basis - using our e-mail list systems.
	Our "Loving Thoughts" Program provides a special message center for sending caring messages during tough times.
	Don't need a Loving Thoughts page but want to send a cheerful note or special anonymous greeting, check out our Cheer Bear program.
	Our "Welcome Wagon" Program, which is staffed by community members who are committed to supporting new arriving members by the sharing of information and providing Web site assistance and guidance.
	An ever-expanding reference area complete with a searchable Library. Included in the library are hundreds of articles on COPD and related subjects ranging from the COPD Survival Guide to the personal experiences of COPDers and caregivers.
	The latest news, articles and information at our COPD Info blog..
	A weekly emailed newsletter to keep you informed on Web site developments and COPD news.

Latest News

Have you just been diagnosed with COPD?
Click Here

Newcomers Chat Changes
Time change - Tuesday 1:00, now at 1:30pm
We have added another Newcomers Chat
More Information

The COPD Registry
More Information

National COPD Awareness Campaign information.
Click Here to keep current on COPD Awareness

- - - Help Wanted - - -
Volunteer opportunities

New Website feature to provide you with more timely information
COPD Info

We have changed 2 chats from "Open" chats to "Focused" Chats.
This new format keeps the hour long chat "focused" on COPD and COPD related subjects.
NEW - Quit Smoking Support chat everyday
More Information on these chats

Wondering what your COPD friends are like?
See the Scrapbook

What COPD Patients Should Know About Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
See Details
What is Alpha-1?

Info about Spiriva
FDA Approval
Initial Report
More About Spiriva
Exercise Study
Patient's Experience

Breathing Exercises
For the COPD Patient
Breathing - Overview
   Coughing
   Diaphragmatic
   Exercises
   General Tips
   Pursed Lip
   Relaxation
   Walking

Bill Horden Library

COPD Advocate
Bill Horden's Works
-- COPD Survival Guide
-- Cookbook
-- Other Writings

Personal Stories

Personal Experiences A collection of articles by COPDers. Click Here

Tips for Coping

Emergency Advice
For Oxygen Users
During Outages
See Tips

Fighting Allergies
From the Inside
Tips on indoor allergies.
See Tips

Last modified:
April 28, 2008

Last modified: April 10, 2008