How Can I Help Manage My Condition?
Millions of Americans are living with lung disease. If you have been diagnosed with a lung condition, you know that simple, everyday tasks can be challenging. Our pulmonology team can develop a treatment plan to help you manage your condition and make healthy choices so you can live a fuller and more active life.
The type of lung condition you have determines the type of treatment you will receive. Your pulmonology team will determine which treatment is best for you and will focus on managing symptoms, improving breathing, slowing the progression of scarring and inflammation, and improving blood flow to the lungs.
Treatment plans may include:
- Medications to manage symptoms such as cough suppressants, bronchodilators, steroids, antibiotics, antifibrotics, blood thinners, or vasodilators
- Oxygen therapy to deliver more oxygen to your lungs
- Pulmonary rehabilitation including breath retraining and muscle strengthening
- Lung transplant in severe cases and for those who qualify
There are certain lifestyle changes you can make to manage your lung condition, such as:
- Don’t start smoking and if you currently smoke, get help from your doctor to quit
- Avoid secondhand smoke, dust, and pollution
- Get vaccinated to prevent respiratory illnesses, avoid crowds, and maintain good hygiene
- Stay active and healthy, get regular checkups, and exercise with your doctor’s approval