The Lung Health Champion

Listening to Your Lungs: Recognizing COPD Warning Signs Early

If you’ve ever wondered whether a COPD symptom is ‘just a bad day’ or a warning sign that your COPD may be getting worse, this episode is one you don’t want to miss. In this episode of The Lung Health Champion, Arnelle is joined by Dr. MeiLan Han, Chief of the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care at the University of Michigan Health, and Dave, a person living with COPD, to discuss the importance of recognizing changes in symptoms and taking action early. Dave shares his personal experience with COPD, including a hospitalization that changed the way he manages his health, while Dr. Han explains how flare-ups can develop and why early intervention matters. Together, they explore common reasons people delay care, the value of having an action plan, strategies to prevent exacerbations, and practical steps for maintaining lung health and quality of life. Key Points From This Episode  [00:00:00] Highlights & Show Intro [00:02:50] Listening to Your Lungs and Understanding Symptoms [00:07:54] Why Do We Wait? The Impact of Delayed Care [00:18:32] Putting Your Action Plan into Practice [00:22:00] Advice to Listeners [00:25:40] AirMail – Listener Letters This episode is proudly supported by Sanofi and Regeneron. * Download your own COPD Action Plan: http://copdf.co/my-copd-action-plan [http://copdf.co/my-copd-action-plan]  * Learn more about Severe and Worsening COPD: IsThisYouCOPD.org [https://isthisyoucopd.org/] * Dr. MeiLan Han on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meilan-han-03753133/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/meilan-han-03753133/]  * GOLD COPD Resources: https://goldcopd.org [https://goldcopd.org] * UpToDate Patient Education: https://www.uptodate.com/patients [https://www.uptodate.com/patients]  * Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com [https://thepodcastconsultant.com/] * Sign up for the COPD Foundation's Newsletter: https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter [https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx%23enewsletter] The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

From Genotype to Action: Managing Dual-Deficient Alpha-1

In this episode of Lung Health Champion, host Amanda Atkinson speaks with Dr. Kyle Hogarth about what happens after identifying a severe genotype in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. They outline a practical approach to patient care, including establishing baselines, determining disease risk, and guiding treatment decisions. The discussion covers monitoring strategies, recognizing signs of disease progression, and when to consider augmentation therapy or specialist referral. Dr. Hogarth also addresses common gaps in diagnosis and emphasizes the importance of routine testing and structured follow-up to improve patient outcomes.  This episode is proudly supported by Grifols. Find out more here. [https://www.grifols.com/en/home]  * COPD Foundation:  https://www.copdfoundation.org [https://www.copdfoundation.org/]  * Alpha-1 Foundation:  https://www.alpha1.org [https://www.alpha1.org/]  * Dr. Kyle Hogarth on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/d-kyle-hogarth-md-fccp-5a093b1/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/d-kyle-hogarth-md-fccp-5a093b1/]  * Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant:  https://thepodcastconsultant.com [https://thepodcastconsultant.com/]  * Order free Alpha-1 testing kits:  https://www.alphaid.com/en/hcp/order-free-alphaid-screening-test-kits [https://www.alphaid.com/en/hcp/order-free-alphaid-screening-test-kits?utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=podcasts&utm_content=pod_1]  The receipt of this free testing service does not create any expectation or obligation on your part to purchase or use any product or service offered by any manufacturer.  * Sign up for COPD Foundation's Newsletter:  https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter [https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter]  The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

Recognizing Worsening COPD and Taking Action

In this episode of Lung Health Champion, Dr. Jean Wright speaks with Dr. Jessica Bon, a pulmonary specialist at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, alongside Tom Krueger, who is living with COPD. Together, they discuss what worsening COPD can look and feel like in daily life, from increased shortness of breath and fatigue to anxiety and changing activity levels. Dr. Bon explains how healthcare providers assess disease progression, the role of inflammation in COPD, and why it’s important for people living with COPD to communicate even subtle changes in symptoms. Tom shares his lived experience with oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, flare-ups, and staying active while managing advanced disease. The conversation also highlights treatment advances, emotional health, and the importance of support systems and movement in maintaining quality of life.    Key Points From This Episode  [00:00:00] Dr. Jessica Bon explains how anxiety and shortness of breath can create a cycle for people living with COPD.  [00:00:37] Dr. Jean Wright introduces the episode and discusses worsening COPD symptoms and inflammation.  [00:03:23] Dr. Jessica Bon explains what worsening COPD means from a clinical perspective.  [00:04:52] Discussion on how physicians identify subtle symptom progression through activity-based questions.  [00:06:24] Why recognizing worsening symptoms early can help improve treatment options and outcomes.  [00:08:42] Tom Krueger shares how COPD and oxygen therapy have changed his daily life.  [00:11:22] Common ways worsening COPD impacts quality of life and daily activities.  [00:12:40] Changes in cough and mucus production as signs of worsening disease.  [00:14:19] Tom discusses his recent COPD flare-up and emergency room visit.  [00:16:09] Discussion about anxiety, breathing patterns, and air trapping in COPD.  [00:17:31] Dr. Bon explains why worsening COPD is not the fault of the person living with the disease.  [00:18:41] Overview of neutrophilic and eosinophilic inflammation in COPD.  [00:20:34] How blood work helps identify type two inflammation in COPD.  [00:22:13] Tom emphasizes the importance of movement and avoiding inactivity.  [00:24:23] Tom reflects on smoking cessation, support systems, and respiratory therapy.  [00:26:16] Dr. Bon explains challenges in treating neutrophilic inflammation in COPD.  [00:27:38] Tom discusses medication adjustments and side effects from nebulizer treatments.  [00:28:49] Conversation about lung transplant evaluation and advanced treatment considerations.  [00:31:26] Tom shares the value of pulmonary rehabilitation and exercise tracking.  [00:33:00] Dr. Bon encourages people living with COPD to communicate worsening symptoms with their healthcare providers.  [00:33:45] Dr. Jean Wright highlights the importance of trusted resources and community support.    Links  * COPD Foundation:  https://www.copdfoundation.org [https://www.copdfoundation.org/]  Download Tips for Living Well with COPD: https://copdf.co/2S2PHAs [https://copdf.co/2S2PHAs]  * Learn more about Severe and Worsening COPD: https://www.isthisyoucopd.org [https://www.isthisyoucopd.org/]  * Dr. Jessica Bon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-bon-50599916 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-bon-50599916]  * Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant:  https://thepodcastconsultant.com [https://thepodcastconsultant.com/]  * Sign up for COPD Foundation's Newsletter:  https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter [https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter]  The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

Understanding Exacerbations: Signs, Triggers, and Taking Action

In this episode of the Lung Health Champion, host Arnelle Konde speaks with Dr. Stephanie Christenson, a pulmonologist, and Caroline Gainer, who is living with COPD, about exacerbations, also known as flare-ups. They examine what an exacerbation is, how it differs from a bad day, and why early recognition is critical.   Caroline shares her personal experience learning to identify symptoms, while Dr. Christenson explains the role of inflammation, common triggers, and the importance of understanding baseline symptoms. The discussion also highlights warning signs, action plans, and when to seek medical care, helping listeners better manage changes in their condition. This episode is proudly supported by Sanofi and Regeneron. Links Download your own COPD Action Plan: http://copdf.co/my-copd-action-plan [http://copdf.co/my-copd-action-plan] Learn more about Severe and Worsening COPD: https://www.isthisyoucopd.org [https://www.isthisyoucopd.org] COPD Foundation: https://www.copdfoundation.org [https://www.copdfoundation.org] Dr. Stephanie Christenson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-christenson-901943238 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-christenson-901943238] Sign up for COPD Foundation's Newsletter: https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter [https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter] Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com [https://thepodcastconsultant.com] The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

From Fear to Action: Understanding Life After a COPD Diagnosis

In this premiere episode of Lung Health Champion, host Arnelle Konde speaks with Dr. Barbara Yawn, a primary care physician and clinical researcher, alongside Tina Moyer, who is living with COPD. The conversation focuses on the emotional and practical realities following an initial COPD diagnosis. Dr. Yawn explains how clinicians can support patients through early misunderstandings, while Tina shares her personal experience of fear, acceptance, and learning to move forward. Together, they examine common misconceptions, the importance of ongoing communication, and how patients, families, and care teams can work together to improve quality of life. Links Download your own COPD Action Plan: http://copdf.co/my-copd-action-plan [http://copdf.co/my-copd-action-plan] Download the Basics of COPD Booklet: https://copdf.co/31pwvkt [https://copdf.co/31pwvkt] COPD Foundation: https://www.copdfoundation.org [https://www.copdfoundation.org] Dr. Barbara Yawn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-yawn-42ab83b [https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-yawn-42ab83b] Sign up for COPD Foundation's Newsletter: https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter [https://www.copdfoundation.org/About-Us/Who-We-Are/Contact-Us.aspx#enewsletter] Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com The podcast is provided by the COPD Foundation as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regimen. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.