Are you or a loved one currently living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)? If so, millions of people share your experience. According to the American Lung Association, more than 15 million Americans currently live with COPD. While living with COPD is challenging, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
At Constellation, we are ready to help you manage your symptoms and receive the treatment that’s right for you. Our unique respiratory care program can help you better understand your condition and effectively manage your symptoms. Here, we’ll show you why our Medicare-covered home health services are the perfect choice for those looking to live a full life with COPD.
What Exactly is COPD?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, includes multiple conditions, such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. These chronic conditions cause blockage of airflow to the lungs which makes breathing difficult. One of the main causes of COPD is smoking, but it can also occur in people who don’t smoke.
Symptoms of COPD can differ depending on the severity of the condition, but the most common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Chronic cough
- Tightness of the chest
More than 50% of adults with low pulmonary function are not aware that they have COPD. Therefore, if you are experiencing these symptoms, make sure to contact your doctor right away.
While there is currently no cure for COPD, there are many effective treatments that can prevent the condition from worsening. With our home health program, we manage your symptoms and support recovery after a flare-up, all in the comfort of your own home.
3 Key Reasons Constellation’s Home Health Helps With COPD Management
1. Personalized Plans
Because there is no cure for COPD, it’s important to develop an action plan to prevent your condition from getting more serious. We know you already have enough on your plate, and that’s why our dedicated team of caregivers and clinicians makes symptom management and flare-up recovery plans tailored to your needs and goals. Plans may include:
- Lung-friendly exercise routines
- Nutrition plans
- Medication schedules
- Methods to help you quit smoking
- Oxygen therapy
With Constellation, you can learn about your condition, ask questions, and work towards improving your health from the comfort of your own home.
2. Mental Support
At Constellation, we are here to support you both physically and emotionally. We understand that the physical toll of managing COPD can sometimes lead to feelings of sadness, fear, and anxiety. Connecting with our skilled caregivers and clinicians can help you:
- Speak openly about your feelings
- Gain insight and perspective
- Pinpoint emotional triggers
Our team of compassionate home health experts will help you not only better understand your condition, but also identify coping strategies to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
3. More Independence
COPD can leave you feeling out of breath and exhausted after completing daily tasks. With our home health plan, we assist patients in completing activities such as:
- Dressing
- Bathing
- Light housekeeping
- Meal preparation
While it’s important to not overexert yourself when living with COPD, our home health care professionals recognize the balance between helping you improve your health and maintaining your independence. When going through your day, you’ll have the opportunity to seek help when you need it and perform tasks at your own pace.
COPD symptoms and treatment options differ from person to person. Whether you have been recently diagnosed with COPD or have been living with it for years, we have a home health plan for you. If you want to learn more about COPD and home health, contact Constellation today.