MANCHESTER, NH — If you have a daily cough, feel short of breath, produce excess sputum or feel unable to take a deep breath, you may have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD.
COPD includes emphysema and/or chronic bronchitis, and permanently damages the lungs. It’s progressive, but because it comes on gradually, many people don’t realize they have it and how it’s limiting them. They may attribute symptoms to aging or being “out of shape.”
The fourth leading killer in the U.S., COPD occurs most often in people 40+ who are or were smokers, have had long-term exposure to lung irritants and air pollution, including secondhand smoke, or have a rare genetic condition. It’s a major cause of disability in the U.S., and 72,000 people in New Hampshire have been diagnosed with COPD. It’s estimated that tens of thousands more have COPD but don’t know it.
There is no cure, but you can learn to breathe better and live better. Breathe New Hampshire will offer a free COPD Wellness Workshop for patients and caregivers on Wed., Nov. 20 from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at our office at 145 Hollis Street, Manchester. Parking is free and a light lunch will be provided. Reserve your spot by calling 669-2411.