It helps to quit smoking, even if you already have COPD. In fact, quitting smoking is the best thing you can do to feel better. COPD gets worse over time if you continue to smoke or breathe dirty air. The damage doesn’t stop until you stop smoking and stop breathing dirty air. By quitting smoking now, you can’t undo the damage that’s already done, but you can protect your lungs from any more damage.

It’s also very important to stay away from second-hand smoke and air pollution.

Tips to help you Save your Breath

• Quit smoking and avoid smoke to slow down your COPD
• Take COPD medications regularly to prevent and lessen symptoms
• Make changes to your lifestyle to stay healthy. Eating well and daily exercise will help improve your energy, increase your lung function and helpyou fight germs to prevent infections
• Join a respiratory rehabilitation program if one is available in your area to help you learn how to breathe better and learn which exercises are good for you
• Prevent and control your COPD flare-ups. Flare-ups are serious and can put you in hospital. Preventing flare-ups and treating them early can save your life.
• Work with your healthcare team. Speak with your family doctor, your pharmacist, and your practice nurse and ask them how to breathe better so you can live better and longer.