Living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) isn't easy. Even dressing and eating can drain COPD patients of energy, and flare-ups are scary and stressful. Read on for tips on coping with this respiratory disease...

When Knowles Hamrick was diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) 16 years ago at 39, he wasn't surprised.

Severe shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing and an allergic reaction to aerosol sprays and perfumes had been his constant companions for years, as were his daily five packs of cigarettes.

"I was very ill," Hamrick says. "The doctor confirmed what I suspected."

Like his fellow 12 million Americans with COPD, Hamrick faces daily struggles coping with a disease that can make even cooking dinner a breath-robbing task.

"By the time COPD is diagnosed, patients often have lost up to half of their lung capacity," says respiratory therapist Jane Martin, associate director of education at the COPD Foundation. "The effects can be extremely severe."

COPD is a group of respiratory diseases that include chronic bronchitis and emphysema. More women than men have the disease, which is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S.

Researchers believe the incidence of COPD among women is higher because they smoke more now than before, and smoke may damage women's lungs more than men's, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Chronic coughs, intense mucus production and disabling shortness of breath are common symptoms.

As the disease progresses and lung function deteriorates, physical activity and social interactions become increasingly difficult for COPD patients.

As devastating as the disease is, COPD patients can improve the quality of their lives. Lifescript's Medical Detective unveils the top 10 doctor-recommended tips for enjoying easier, more productive days.