Although there is no cure for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), your symptoms can be managed, and damage to your lungs can be slowed. If you smoke, quitting is the most important thing you can do to help your lungs. You also need to try to stay away from people who are smoking or places where there is smoking.

It is important to keep the air in your home clean. Here are some things that may help you in your home:

• Keep smoke, fumes, and strong smells out of your home.
• If your home is painted or sprayed for insects, have it done when you can stay away from your home.
• Cook near an open door or window.
• If you heat with wood or kerosene, keep a door or window open.
• Keep your windows closed and stay at home when there is a lot of pollution or dust outside.

Actively practicing some form of exercise, along with proper nutrition, can also significantly improve your quality of life. Low-impact activities place minimum stress on joints and are easier to perform than high-intensity activities. You may benefit from exercise programs that simply target the upper body and are designed to increase strength of the respiratory muscles.

Ask your doctor or nurse about getting a flu shot and pneumonia vaccination.