Chronic Lung Disease: Notes for Family and Friends

Being close to someone with chronic lung disease will likely mean some changes in your life. As your loved one copes with chronic lung disease, you may be asked to be a helper, caregiver, or source of support.

COPD- Lung Surgery Choices

Surgery is a choice for a small number of people with severe COPD. Here's a look at the different choices.

Treatment for COPD

Your COPD treatment plan will likely include several forms of treatment. These are based on your symptoms and the underlying cause of your COPD.

Ileostomy: Dealing with a Food Blockage

After an ileostomy, it may be harder to digest foods that are high in fiber. Eaten in large amounts, these foods can clump together and cause a blockage. Learn about the signs of a blockage and what to do if you have one.

Ileostomy: Caring For Your Stoma

You need to take care of your stoma and the skin around it (peristomal skin). That means keeping the stoma and the skin clean. It also means protecting the skin from moisture and contact with stool. This helps prevent skin problems and odor.

Managing Crohn’s Disease: Medicines

Your doctor may prescribe medicine to help control your Crohn’s disease. Medicine can help reduce symptoms. It won’t cure Crohn’s disease, but it can help improve your quality of life.