🌬️ Episode 17: Pulmonary Function Testing – Know Your Numbers 🌬️ Release Date: July 20, 2025

Welcome to Episode 17 of The Cozy Lung Lounge, your go-to podcast for respiratory health—brought to you by BluZone Health. In this episode, we dive into the essential topic of Pulmonary Function Testing (PFTs) and why knowing your numbers can be a game-changer for managing your lung health. 📊🫁

Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with a chronic lung condition for years, understanding your test results—like FEV1, FVC, DLCO, and more—can help you better navigate your care and advocate for your needs.

🎙️ Podcast Hosts: Amy Sheldon | Gina Hoots | Kelly Welton-Lewis

🫁 Topics Covered:

• The basics of PFTs: what they are and how they work
• Spirometry: the “speed test” for your lungs
• Key measurements explained (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC ratio, lung volumes, DLCO, and more)
• Specialized tests: methacholine challenge, FENO, ECO
• Interpreting your MyChart results: normal vs. abnormal patterns
• What your numbers can tell you about obstructive, restrictive, and mixed lung diseases
• When to follow up with your primary doctor or a lung specialist
• How to improve lung function through medication, rehab, and lifestyle changes
• Why tracking your numbers over time is essential for long-term care

💡 Why Listen? Understanding your pulmonary test results helps you take control of your health. This episode breaks down complex numbers into clear insights—empowering you to be an informed and confident part of your care team.

📣 Key Takeaway: “No matter where you are in your lung health journey, understanding your numbers gives you power over your care.”

🔔 Subscribe for more episodes packed with tools, insights, and encouragement to help you breathe better and live stronger.

📲 Connect with BluZone Health: Website: https://bluzone.health Instagram: @bluzone_health Facebook: @respiratoryrehab LinkedIn: BluZone Health X/Twitter: @bluzonehealth

🎧 #CozyLungLoungePodcast #PulmonaryFunctionTesting #KnowYourNumbers #LungHealthEducation #BluZoneHealth #SpirometryExplained #RespiratoryWellness #PulmonaryRehab #TrackYourHealth #BreatheBetterLiveBetter

🌬️ Episode 16: Taking a Stand (and a Breath): Life and Advocacy with COPD - With Guest Phyllis DiLorenzo 🌬️ Release Date: July 6, 2025

Welcome back to The Cozy Lung Lounge Podcast, proudly sponsored by BluZone Health. In Episode 16, we welcome the inspiring Phyllis DiLorenzo—a retired social worker, devoted family woman, and passionate COPD advocate. 🫁💛

Diagnosed with COPD nine years ago, Phyllis has become a powerful voice within the COPD Foundation community, working tirelessly alongside fellow patients and staff to drive awareness, support, and change.

🎙️ Podcast Hosts: Amy Sheldon | Gina Hoots | Kelly Welton-Lewis

🫁 Topics Covered:

• Phyllis’s personal health journey—from first symptoms to her life today
• The impact of COPD on her relationships and daily life
• What she wishes she’d known at the start of her diagnosis
• The tools and people that helped her most
• Insightful advice for others living with COPD and chronic lung conditions

💡 Why Listen? Whether you're navigating your own COPD diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or advocating for better care, Phyllis’s story will leave you informed, inspired, and ready to take action. Her warmth, honesty, and determination shine through every word.

🙏 Thank you, Phyllis, for sharing your story and for your unwavering commitment to the COPD community.

🔔 Subscribe for more real-life stories, breathing tips, and resources for pulmonary wellness.

📲 Connect with BluZone Health: Website: https://bluzone.health Instagram: @bluzone_health Facebook: @respiratoryrehab LinkedIn: BluZone Health X/Twitter: @bluzonehealth

🎧 #CozyLungLoungePodcast #COPDJourney #PhyllisDiLorenzo #COPDAdvocate #BluZoneHealth #PulmonarySupport #BreatheBetterLiveBetter #LungHealthMatters #COPDFoundation #ChronicLungDisease

🫁 Episode 15: Exercise Essentials – Your Guide to Moving Safely with a Lung Condition 🫁 Release Date: June 20, 2025

Welcome back to The Cozy Lung Lounge Podcast, brought to you by BluZone Health. In Episode 15, we’re diving into the essential role exercise plays in managing chronic lung conditions—and how to do it safely and confidently. 💪🏽🫁

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or just looking to stay active, this episode is packed with clear guidance on how to get moving without compromising your health. And if you’re wondering how much is too much, or what types of exercise matter most, we’ve got you covered.

🎙️ Hosted by: Kelly Welton-Lewis | Gina Hoots | Amy Sheldon (Plus: Kelly’s got some thoughts on making balance training way cooler than it sounds.)

🫁 What We Cover in This Episode:

🔹 First Things First: Talk to Your Doctor Just diagnosed? Ask about an in-person, Phase 2 Pulmonary Rehab program. Only a small percentage of patients are referred—so be proactive! If a program isn’t available, get medical clearance before starting any exercise routine.

🔹 Why Exercise Matters: • Strengthens your heart and improves circulation • Boosts lung function and reduces breathlessness • Builds muscle, balance, and flexibility • Supports metabolic health and weight management • Improves mood, focus, and emotional well-being

🔹 The Big 4: Exercise Types that Matter 🏃‍♀️ Aerobic (Cardio) – 150 minutes/week of walking, cycling, swimming 🏋️ Strength Training – 2–3x/week with light weights or bands 🧘 Flexibility Training – Stretch or do yoga daily 🧍 Balance Training – Crucial for fall prevention, especially with age

💬 Thinking About Exercising at Home? • Get physician approval for your plan • Create a safe, functional space (resistance bands, weights, treadmill, or even milk jugs!) • Find a workout/accountability partner • Plan for emergencies • Consider your oxygen needs—know how to tell if you need more O2 and what steps to take • Explore online support like Right2Breathe for connection and motivation

🎧 #CozyLungLoungePodcast #ExerciseEssentials #LungHealthFitness #PulmonaryRehabSupport #BluZoneHealth #COPDExercise #AsthmaActivity #BreatheMoveThrive #OxygenAndExercise #Right2Breathe #StayActiveStayStrong