Can the progression of COPD be controlled

[montage9]

Hello,

As I understand from reading other posts, COPD looks to be an irreversible and progressive disease. My mother currently has the condition and she is above 70 years of age. She has difficulty breathing after doing the smallest of chores around the house. She is forced to rest for an hour after taking morning bath. However, her doctors have not put her on oxygen treatment and she is also afraid that she will become dependent on oxygen if she inhales it every day. Could that be true?

Also, any recommendations in terms of diet, exercise, medication on slowing down the disease would be much appreciated. Thanks.

[teko]

It is progressive and is not reversable. The damage done is done. Oxygen will make her feel better, and can actually lengthen her life, talk to the dr, at her age I would consider it. I know people that have been on oxygen for years and years. It really does help them.

[allmymarbles]

Breathing exercises seem to help with symptoms, as does whatever exercise is possible. What she should do on a regular bases is to exhale whatever air is in her lungs, bending over and drawing in her abdomen to empty them completely., The can do this three or four times and repeat the exercise four or five times a day.This  works very well and as a side benefit helps expel mucus.