Some people like to exercise on their own. However, you might prefer working in a group with a trainer. If so, your doctor may suggest pulmonary rehabilitation (rehab). Pulmonary rehab is a structured program. It takes place in a facility that may look like a gym. Download What is Pulmonary Rehabilitation and How Can It…
When your liver disease becomes life-threatening, it’s time to consider a liver transplant. This procedure involves removing your diseased liver and replacing it with a healthy one. Download Liver Transplant – Who Should Get One and Why as a PDF. You may have heard about “living-related donor” transplants. In these procedures, relatives donate a piece…
Alpha-1 liver disease occurs when abnormal Z-type AAT proteins build up within liver cells. Some of the AAT proteins link to other AAT proteins in a process called polymerization. These polymers can form large or small clusters that damage the liver cell. Download Alpha-1 Liver Disease – Causes, Treatments, and More as a PDF. Silverman…
Lab tests are an important part of assessing your liver’s health. Each test looks at specific functions of your liver. Download Lab Tests for Liver Health and Function as a PDF. General lab tests for liver health There are many diagnostic tests that provide general information about liver health — or point to specific diseases.
When you’re living with Alpha-1 lung disease, you put a lot of energy into the work of breathing. You need some strategies to help you manage your energy so you use less of it when dealing with work, family, and other responsibilities. Download Manage Your Energy With These Strategies as a PDF. Here are some…
Most of us take breathing for granted. We don’t have to think about it. It just happens. But people with chronic lung disease have to use coordinated breathing to conserve their energy. Coordinated breathing helps them stay active and handle day-to-day tasks without getting too short of breath. Download How to Conserve Energy During Daily…
Understanding your respiratory system may help you understand Alpha-1 lung disease better. So, let’s take a quick look at what it is, and what it does. Download Your Respiratory System — What It Is, and How It Works as a PDF. How breathing works When you breathe in (inspiration), air travels through the respiratory passages,…
The way you view your final days might be similar to the way you answer that age-old question, “Is the glass half-empty or half-full?” Download Make the Most of Your Final Days as a PDF. The final stage of life means different things to different people. It’s a chance to: Do things you put off…
As the end-of-life approaches, you and your doctor may discuss pain management options, to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible. Download Pain Management and Comfort Measures as a PDF. There are many different types of medicines available for pain management and comfort at the end of life. You may already take non-prescription, over-the-counter medicines…
Let’s review some of the common lung diseases that can cause respiratory problems. Understanding them may help you take a more active role in managing your lung disease. Download Common Lung Diseases as a PDF. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes airflow blockage…
Most of us don’t plan for serious illness and death. But, Advance Directives help you make end-of-life preparations, so you can live more fully and comfortably in your final days. Download Advance Directives – Planning for End-of-Life Care as a PDF. If you wait until you’re in the hospital with an acute episode, you may…
