Talking to Your Doctor Is a Big Step.


Talking with your doctor is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Seems simple, but it makes a big difference.

Here are a few ways to have better doctor visits:

  • Be as open and honest as possible. Don't hold back, your doctor needs to know the truth to give you the best treatment possible.
  • Be as descriptive as you can. Rather than just telling your doctor that you get tired easily, you may want to go into more detail such as, "Whenever I vacuum, I need to sit down for a few minutes."
  • Tell your doctor everything. The more you say, the better. Talk about your overall health, specifics about your breathing, and any other lifestyle changes.
  • Bring a family member to your appointment for added support.

Another way to have better doctor visits is to come prepared. Help yourself do that with this quick interactive worksheet.

It starts with a test of your breathing.

When you visit your doctor specifically about your breathing, you'll probably be asked to take a lung function test. This is called spirometry. Very simply, it's a test that measures how much air you can breathe out.

Your results from this test will be compared to what's normal for a person of your age, size (height and weight), and sex. This way, your doctor can tell if you have COPD: and if so, identify which stage of the disease.

If your doctor doesn't perform this test, you may want to ask for one. You can also choose to see a specialist in respiratory medicine, such as a pulmonologist.


 

COPD Myths

The only thing doctors will do is say "quit smoking."

REALITY: Quitting is important. But there are many ways your doctor can help you. Treatment options might include medications, pulmonary rehab, oxygen therapy, or lifestyle changes. The reality is, you need to have the discussion to find out.

Want help preparing for your next doctor visit?

Print and fill out one of these handy visit preparation worksheets. Just choose the one that's right for you:

Diagnosed with
COPD Not diagnosed
with COPD

Or, complete and print the interactive version.