Your COPD can be managed and treated. But you need to talk to your doctor. Set goals with him or her about the lifestyle changes you should make. For example, you could start exercising more and go on a prescription treatment to better manage your condition.

Ask your doctor if a prescription treatment is right for you. Talk about the two types of therapy for people with COPD: long-term, daily maintenance and rescue medicines. They may help with your breathing problems. Your doctor may prescribe one or both types; it depends on your health and symptoms. Some patients are on more than one maintenance medicine.

There are many prescriptions available, both daily maintenance and rescue, for the treatment of COPD. Click here to learn more about one prescription maintenance treatment option.

In addition to prescription options, you can also take actions that may lead to a better life. Start now by taking a few small steps in the right direction. It may lead you down a path of healthy living.

Here are some tips to help improve your breathing. Talk to your doctor about how you can create a plan for each option. You can find out more about each of these tips in the Guide to Better Breathing.

It's never too late. There are many steps you can start taking to help you breathe better. Get the Guide to Better Breathing to learn about other things you can do to improve your breathing.