The COPD 101 Library

 The COPD Foundation has expanded its excellent COPD 101 Library again. It is an excellent overview of key clinical concepts for COPD & Genetic COPD, including risk factors, epidemiology, screening and diagnostics, and treatment strategies. This presentation can be a starting point for anyone new to COPD or seeking to improve overall care. Patient education materials, created specifically to assist clear communication of disease management concepts, are also included to help optimize therapy plans.

COPD 101 is available on the site below and is in Basic PDF, Enhanced PDF (including speaker notes), and Full PowerPoint (presentation-ready) formats.  

https://www.copdfoundation.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Healthcare-Provider/The-101-Library.aspx

Reducing Price of Inhaled Drugs

 Boehringer Ingelheim, AstraZeneca and Glaxo Smith Kline have  announced that they will begin limiting out-of-pocket costs for inhalers for eligible patients to $35/month. 

This program will start on June 1, 2024 at retail pharmacies. This price cap does not apply to government-sponsored health plans such as Medicare, Medicaid, or VA benefits.

TECHNOLOGY IS NOTHING.

'TECHNOLOGY IS NOTHING.
WHAT'S IMPORTANT IS THAT YOU HAVE A FAITH IN PEOPLE, THAT THEY-RE BASICALLY GOOD AND SMART, AND IF YOU GIVE THEM TOOLS, THEY'LL DO WONDERFUL THINGS WITH THEM.'

- STEVE JOBS

 

Celebrating Respiratory Care Week 2023

Do few things, but do them well

 “Do few things, but do them well. 

Simple joys are holy.”

— St. Francis of Assisi

Cross Reactions

 If you have asthma or COPD with asthma, do not assume a “Natural” label means it’s a natural fit for you.

Consider: A, B, C, D & C, D, E

If you are Latex sensitive or allergic consider avoiding eating/drinking: 

Avocados

Bananas

Chestnuts

Deliciosa Actinidia (kiwifruit) 

If you are Ragweed sensitive or allergic consider avoiding eating/drinking:

Chamomile, 

Dandelion Daisy 

Echinacea

Cross Reactions to certain foods can occur because they share similar structures that the body mistakenly recognizes as the allergens.

Speak to your allergist or healthcare provider about other specific cross reactions. 

Outdoor Air Triggers for COPD and Asthma

Consider the acronym - P.O.A.M.

Pollens
Ozone
Air Quality Index
Molds

You can reduce or plan for your exposure to environmental triggers. POAM can cause individuals with asthma and COPD to have increased or worsening symptoms.

Pay attention to the ozone and air quality index (AQI) in your area. The website AirNow.gov checks the air quality in your area. The website will also help you plan your projected outings and errands on days when the air quality is better. 

Depending on your area, air quality is better earlier in the day. Schedule your errands or outings earlier to decrease your exposure to triggers.

Consider wearing a mask when pollen or mold counts are high.

Air quality outdoors can affect air quality indoors. If possible, keep your windows closed to prevent airborn triggers from entering your home. Replace/clean air filters on your central air, window units, car, and furnace regularly. When in your car, put the air conditioner on “recirculate” to prevent the air conditioner from bringing air in from the outdoors. Wear a mask and gloves when maintaining/changing the filters.