Blue Care Network of Michigan

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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic disease of the lungs, usually caused by smoking. Although COPD may include many different lung diseases, the most common are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. With COPD, the lung passages thicken and narrow. You’ll experience increased mucus (phlegm) and more coughing. Because the lungs are less elastic and the air sacs may be damaged, you may be short of breath especially during physical activity.

Confirming COPD

BCN recommends that a diagnosis of COPD be confirmed by a test called spirometry, which measures the flow of air from the lungs as you exhale. Check with your doctor to see if spirometry testing is right for you.

COPD can be managed

If you have COPD, there are things you can do to improve your breathing.

• Quit smoking. (BCN offers a free smoking cessation program.)
• Protect yourself from COPD flare-ups.
• Use COPD medicines correctly.
• Exercise.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Track your weight.
• Get a flu shot every year.
• Get a pneumonia shot, if recommended by your doctor.
• Recognize when COPD is getting worse and when to seek medical help.

COPD Management Program

The COPD Management Program is available to all Blue Care Network members who have been diagnosed with COPD, emphysema or chronic bronchitis. If you have been diagnosed with COPD, you will be automatically enrolled.

The program will help you understand COPD, how it affects your life and how you can better manage your condition. Several times during the year, you’ll receive the Lifestyles for COPD newsletter with valuable information that will help you:

• Understand COPD, its symptoms and treatment
• Know the different COPD medications
• Learn to use a COPD management plan
• Know how to seek help if you are feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with the demands of managing your condition

For information about the COPD Management Program, call 800-392-4247, TTY 800-257-9980, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding holidays).

Care management

Case managers provide individual education and counseling, and coordinate care with physicians, for members who need complex care.

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