Health Tip: Helping COPD

(HealthDay News) -- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term that describes long-term lung diseases including emphysema and bronchitis.

The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute names these possible treatment options for COPD:

• Use an inhaled medication, including a bronchodilator or steroid drug.
• Attend pulmonary rehabilitation to help you learn how to manage symptoms.
• Exercise to improve strength and breathing.
• Quit smoking.
• Avoid pollution when possible.
• Use oxygen therapy.
• Have lung surgery to treat severe COPD.