Managing COPD Symptoms in Colder Weather

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) affects millions of people worldwide, and its impact goes beyond the lungs. This post explores how COPD contributes to heart problems and why managing your condition is essential for heart health.   What Is COPD? COPD is a chronic condition that restricts airflow, causing breathing difficulties. It includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and mucus production. Key Statistics on COPD More than 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, and many more may suffer without realizing it. COPD is in the top ten leading causes of death in  the U.S., making awareness and early treatment critical for improving COPD prognosis and overall well-being. How COPD Affects the Cardiovascular System The respiratory and cardiovascular systems work together to deliver oxygen to the body. When COPD limits oxygen intake, the heart works harder, leading to complications like pulmonary hypertension,

Jan 13, 2025 Posted By Kate Wildenthaler

Anxiety can make it hard to breathe, but there are simple breathing exercises that can help calm your mind and body. Whether you experience occasional stress or more persistent anxiety, these techniques are easy to practice anywhere and can make a noticeable difference. Let’s explore how deep breathing can reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being. Why Deep Breathing Helps with Anxiety When you're anxious, your body goes into a "fight or flight" response, which can cause shallow, rapid breathing. This kind of breathing can exacerbate feelings of panic and tension. Learning to control your breath helps reverse this response by activating your parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation. Practicing mindful breathing slows your heart rate and helps you regain control, reducing anxiety and restoring a sense of calm.   5 Effective Breathing Techniques to Reduce Anxiety 4-7-8 Breathing Technique This method helps calm the nervous system quickly. Inhale quietly through

Jan 06, 2025 Posted By Kate Wildenthaler

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, commonly known as COPD, is a serious lung condition that affects millions of people across the United States. In this post, we’ll explore what COPD is, how it impacts the body, and how oxygen therapy can offer relief to those living with this chronic illness.   What Is COPD? COPD is an umbrella term used for two primary conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. These conditions lead to obstructed airflow from the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. People with COPD often experience symptoms like: Shortness of breath Persistent coughing Wheezing Excessive mucus production The disease develops slowly, and many people are not diagnosed until it has progressed. The primary cause of COPD is long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most often from cigarette smoke, but environmental factors and genetic predispositions also play a role.   How Many People Are Affected by COPD? COPD is a widespread health issue in the

Nov 18, 2024 Posted By Kate Wildenthaler

Oxygen is all around us, making up about 21% of the air we breathe. But for some individuals, the oxygen in the air isn’t enough to meet their body’s needs. This is where medical oxygen steps in. But is medical oxygen considered a medication, and why do you need a prescription for it? Let's explore.   What Is Medical Oxygen? Medical oxygen is highly concentrated oxygen (usually 99% pure or higher) that is used to treat various health conditions where blood oxygen levels are low. Unlike the air around us, which contains nitrogen and other gases, medical oxygen is free from impurities and delivered in controlled doses. This oxygen is administered through a portable or stationary oxygen concentrator, or in some cases, oxygen tanks, and helps patients with respiratory conditions maintain healthy oxygen levels.   Why Do You Need a Prescription for Medical Oxygen? While oxygen is vital to life, receiving too much oxygen or using it improperly can lead to health complications. That’s

Nov 17, 2024 Posted By Kate Wildenthaler

              Victoria Marquard Schultz/OxyGo Announced as winner in 2020 Smart 50 Awards. The Smart 50 Awards, presented by Smart Business, honor the top 50 executives in the Greater Cleveland region Westlake, OH. – October 30th, 2020 – OxyGo LLC, a leader in lightweight portable oxygen concentrators, announced in a virtual ceremony that Victoria Marquard-Schultz, OxyGo’s CEO, was named a Smart 50 winner by Smart Business Magazine for the second year in a row. The Smart 50 Awards presented by Smart Business honor the top executives of the region’s smartest 50 companies for their ability to effectively build and lead successful organizations. “The only thing better than winning a Smart 50 is winning twice. I am truly honored to be among this prestigious group. With COVID-19 our team and providers have had to find new ways to safely and effectively adapt to an ever-changing world. Receiving this award wouldn’t

Nov 24, 2020 Posted By Brittany Fichter