COPD symptoms can be triggered by your environment, so being aware of what can cause a flare-up may help you better manage your condition day-to-day. Some suggestions to reduce COPD triggers include:

• Avoid lung irritants, such as air pollution or chemical fumes by staying indoors on days when the air quality is poor
• Improve the air quality inside your home with ventilation or an air purifier
• Reduce mucus build-up by using a humidifier and drinking plenty of water
• Don’t allow smoking in your home and avoid second-hand smoke outside
• Reduce your chance of catching a cold or the flu by washing your hands frequently, avoiding large crowds during the winter season and making sure you have your scheduled vaccines