Significant lung damage from smoking, exposure in some jobs, or even diseases such as AIDS and tuberculosis can lead to COPD. Having chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can leave you feeling short of breath, sometimes reluctant to go shopping or for a walk because you are afraid of more difficulties. You may have wheezing, tightness in the chest, or frequent coughing. Although you see a doctor for your COPD, you often have questions and need answers. In this concise and practical guide, leading medical expert Donald A. Mahler answers some of the most pressing questions that he has been asked over 30 years of seeing patients with COPD, including

•Why am I short of breath?
•What medications can treat my COPD?
•Can surgery improve COPD?
•What are flare-ups—and how can I prevent them?
•How can I stop smoking?
•What should I do if my breathing isn't getting better?
•Can exercise help? If so, which exercises are the most beneficial?
•What's the best way to prevent lung infections?
•How does COVID-19 affect COPD?
•How can I travel with oxygen?
•Can I be sexually active with COPD?

and much more.

Each chapter includes a patient vignette and key points. Tables and boxes offering helpful tips are included throughout. Providing up-to-date, evidence-based content that covers more than just medications, COPD gives you the tools you need to keep active—and thrive.