Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease - Lifestyle Changes

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Psychological Support

Patients with COLD have a high risk for depression and anxiety, which can impair outlook. Psychological and social supports are important for improving emotional states, for coping with daily stresses, and for maintaining independence and social relationships. Patients who have emotional difficulties should consider group support or individual counseling.

Minimizing Airborne Contaminants

As much as possible, a patient should avoid exposure to airborne irritants, including hair sprays, aerosol products, paint sprayers, and insecticides.

To minimize the amount of contaminants in the home, the following may be helpful:

• Ventilate by keeping windows open (weather permitting), using exhaust fans for stoves and vents for furnaces, and keeping fireplace flues open.
• Make sure wood-burning stoves or fireplaces are well ventilated and meet the Environmental Protection Agency's safety standards. Burn pressed wood products labeled "exterior grade" since they contain the least amount of pollutants from resins.
• Have furnaces and chimneys inspected and cleaned periodically.
• Eliminate molds and mildews that result from household water damage.
• People who are sensitive to allergens -- such as pollen, pet dander, house dust, and mold -- should avoid exposure to them. [See In-Depth Repor t#04: Asthma in Adults.]

Review Date: 04/28/2006
Reviewed By: Harvey Simon, M.D., Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital