Dealing with Stage 4 COPD-LoveGo Weekly Report

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Dealing with Stage 4 COPD

Have you been diagnosed with COPD, and have the doctor say that it’s Stage 4? This diagnosis usually comes with fear, denial and even depression. But before you start feeling downcast and ruminating over your life, give this article a read first.

As you may know, COPD has four stages. Stage 1 is the mildest, while Stage 4 is said to be the most severe. The ability to breathe becomes more challenging with each passing stage, along with symptoms that become more difficult to manage. As you may also know, each stage is diagnosed depending on the FEV1, or the forced expiratory volume in one second. This test reflects how your lungs are functioning and, according to Healthline, is a measure of how much air you can release in the first second of a forced breath.

Though various organizations have different ways of classifying and describing each stage, Stage 4 is most usually termed as the most severe, with many patients becoming very ill at this point. Yet despite these diagnoses, a huge number of patients with Stage 4 have lived way beyond the life expectancy given to them by their doctors, and have continued to function well while dealing with their condition. Community forums and patient testimonies have clearly shown that Stage 4 COPD patients can continue to alter the course of the disease. If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with Stage 4 COPD, there are many things you can do defy COPD.

· Manage medications smartly. With a diagnosis of Stage 4, your doctor may have more medications prescribed. Take your medications religiously, and ask for help in keeping track of them. Sometimes, various medications are required depending on the symptoms being experienced. Ask a loved one to help in managing these medications. It’s also a good idea to get close to a nurse or someone from the medical team to assist in setting up a medications schedule that is easy to follow. They can also answer your questions about medications anytime you have some. Another tip here is to ask for devices that are easier to use, such as a spacer to help in administering inhaled medications.

· Take steps toward quality rest. This stage presents more difficulty in getting quality sleep. As breathing becomes harder, restorative sleep also becomes more difficult to attain. Rest whenever you can, and stop whatever you are doing whenever you feel fatigued. You can also talk to your doctor to learn about techniques that can help you sleep better. You can also opt for an adjustable bed, or simply add more pillows to make it easier for you to breathe with lesser effort.

· Choose to exercise. Though exercise may be more difficult at this stage, it is also the point where it is most important. At this stage, just a small amount of physical activity can become overwhelming and even exhaustive. There are ways, however, to minimize discomfort and promote exercise. Mobility devices, for instance, can help in walking around, since they provide something to lean on and share the weight. Many of these devices also have baskets or areas where a portable oxygen device can be placed. You can also opt for home exercise equipment that you can use with your loved ones while watching TV or simply bonding.

· Know what to expect. Stage 4 comes with more flare-ups, difficulty in coughing up phlegm, and increasingly challenging symptoms. Preparing in advance for flare-ups by having emergency medications handy can help ease the stress on you and your loved ones. Knowing what supplies to have and what has to be done will allow you and your loved ones to smoothly handle any difficult situations. It’s also a good idea to have a hospital bag ready to just grab up anytime a trip to the hospital is needed, along with a handy list of medications and important medical information.

· Choose the best oxygen therapy. Oxygen therapy can greatly improve quality of life, allowing you to enjoy each day better. It also allows less difficulty in physical activity, promoting involvement in everyday activities and even exercise, like using oxygen concentrators. It’s also best to get the best training in handling and using your equipment. Make sure that all your questions about your oxygen therapy equipment are answered, and that you have replacement parts readily available like tubing and batteries.

· Adapt a positive attitude. This, by far, is the most important thing you can do. A positive attitude and the will to make the necessary changes in your life can be the start of having improvements in your COPD symptoms. Many Stage 4 COPD patients have continued to live fulfilling lives and defying life expectancy predictions with the resolve and willpower that they will get better. Know that you have the power to alter the course of your COPD, thus, taking charge of your health is the key. Working with your loved ones, your doctor, and the medical team, along with taking active steps to manage symptoms and live your best life, can have a great impact on your perspective toward your condition.


With all the uncertainties surrounding Stage 4 COPD, many patients have persevered and functioned at their best. Taking an active stand and implementing the tips above can give you the lead against your COPD.

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