COPD information and interactive support

COPD is NOT a death sentence!

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 diagnosed after some of the lung capacity is already lost. The two primary diseases included under the umbrella term of COPD include emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Often included in many definitions of COPD are bronchiectasis and refractory (severe chronic) asthma.

Surprising little had actually been learned in past years about COPD. Studies and research were very limited. Now, however, things are improving with some very encouraging studies, clinical trials and research under way for medications and treatments. Research into such areas as genetics, new medications and treatment protocols promise greatly improved diagnostics and treatments for the future. These will greatly improve the quality of life for the COPD patient. A possible cure for COPD is no longer considered impossible. Now there also is a very active COPD awareness program underway, which started in 2007. This program is designed to educate everyone about COPD, with major emphasis on early diagnosis. For more information, see sidebar links (Latest News) to the NHLBI's COPD: Learn More, Breathe Better® program. There is a very long way to go, however.

The good news is that COPD, though considered a chronic, debilitating and sometimes fatal disease, 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 the diagnosis of COPD. 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 testing and detection of COPD
A physician who is knowledgeable in COPD and 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 COPD 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 COPD.
It is estimated that an additional 12 million or more are still undiagnosed, as they are in the beginning stages of COPD and have few or minimal symptoms and have not sought health care yet.
It is estimated that close to 4-600 million cases of COPD could possibly be found worldwide.

Here at COPD International, you will not be alone. This site has been organized and staffed by individuals who have been diagnosed with COPD, caregivers and other individuals interested in COPD. Designed to help you learn to control COPD instead of letting COPD control you, it's primary purpose is to provide a complete resource for COPD patients, caregivers and family, 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 -- COPD patients, caregivers, teenagers and kids facing the fears, issues and problems associated with dealing on a daily basis with COPD. 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 round the clock COPD information and support by e-mail.
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) is a 3 part program which provides a place for those living alone to check in on a regular basis; a way for us to find those who we have lost contact with; and a pen pal program to encourage the creation of COPD related friendships around the world.
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 COPD patients and caregivers.
The latest news, articles and information at our COPD Info blog.
A manual with information and guidance for starting a COPD support group in your local community.
A weekly emailed newsletter to keep you informed on our Web site developments and the latest COPD news.
Down through the years, we have lost many of our friends and family to COPD. Some visited using only a nickname, while others remained totally unknown, preferring to read, learn and seek comfort in the knowledge that they were not alone. The tribute area is dedicated to all COPD Patients, known and unknown, who have gone on before us.