The point of the mask is that you not give a disease to others; it's to shield others from your coughs and sneezes. It's not to protect you. So whatever you can fashion that keeps your coughs and sneezes away from others is fine. The masks that are used most of the time are very difficult for people with COPD to breathe through, and they tend to catch all our exhalations, so we're just breathing in our own stale air. Not a good situation. If you use a bandanna and leave the bottom very loose (still covering the face, but loose enough to allow your exhalation to get out), it serves the purpose of protecting others. Part of the problem we have is that if we're using PLB, getting that exhalation out is very important. The looser the mask can be around your mouth the better.

If you're concerned about protecting yourself you must wear an N-95 mask at the least. if you don't have one, stay home.

I have COPD and wear oxygen. I tried to wear a mask and thought I was going to suffocate and my friend thought I was going to pass out. When I go to the store I get what I want and leave, wash my hands and go home. I asked my Dr. and he advised no mask since I had so much problems with one. I don't leave the house unless I have to and then only for a little while

Hi, I have a N95 mask and still can't breath with it on. I go to places with few people and hurry up and get out. I'm with you I don't no how we are to wear masks when we have oxygen just doesn't work.

My breathing is normally really good and doesn't bother me. When it is humid I struggle a bit, but it is really not too bad. However, I wore a mask to go out for the first time the other day. I swore I was having panic attack because I couldn't breathe through the mask. It scared me.

Your right. I wish drs. understand that our situation with lung issues need a N95 as well. You would think that is a concern to Drs