NHS shares steps to breathe easier this winter
Ahead of World COPD Day (18 November), the NHS is urging people to take simple steps to look after their lungs this winter.
People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are being encouraged to stop smoking, get their vaccinations and check they’re using their inhalers correctly.
More than 130,000 people in the region are diagnosed with the condition which damages the lungs and airways, making it harder to breathe.
This year’s World COPD Day theme, 'Early Diagnosis and Management for a Better Life', highlights how spotting the condition early and getting the right care can help people stay well.
Claire Adams, respiratory clinical lead, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: "COPD is the third leading cause of death globally.
"It causes the airways in a person's lungs to get smaller, making it harder for them to breathe and can result in shortness of breath, cough or tiredness.
"Smoking is the main cause of COPD, but air pollution and breathing in dust or fumes at work can also increase the risk
"If you find yourself getting breathless, or have a cough that won’t go away, please don’t put off getting checked - finding COPD early means you can start treatment sooner and help you manage daily life."
As winter approaches, people diagnosed with COPD are also being encouraged to take extra steps to look after their lungs
“Winter can be tough when you have COPD," added Claire. "Cold air and winter viruses can make breathing harder and cause symptoms to flare up - but there are things you can do to protect yourself and reduce the risk of needing hospital care."
People living with COPD are being encouraged to:
- Get support to stop smoking
- Get their winter vaccinations
- Use their inhalers the right way, every day
"If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do to protect your lungs, added Claire. "Ask your GP or COPD nurse about free support to quit.
"You should also book your flu vaccine and check if you're eligible for RSV and COVID-19 vaccines. You can ask your GP surgery if you also need a pneumococcal vaccine, which can help protect against pneumonia.
“And use your inhalers as prescribed. Your pharmacist, GP or COPD nurse can check you are getting the most from each dose - even if you have used an inhaler for years, it’s worth asking someone to check your technique."
GP practices across the North East and North Cumbria, are offering extra support for people with COPD this winter by identifying people most at risk of COPD flare-ups and encouraging them to get a review and a personal care plan. This helps people know how to manage their condition and what to do if symptoms worsen.
For advice about COPD symptoms or treatment, speak to your GP, COPD nurse or view this COPD leaflet.