Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - COPD
Chronic Obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, refers to a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing related problems. It includes asthma, emphysema and chronic bronchitis. With COPD, the airways in your lungs become inflamed and thicken, and the tissue where oxygen is exchanged is destroyed. The flow of air in and out of your lungs decreases.
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Frequent coughing
- Wheezing
- Excess phlegm, mucus, or sputum production.
- Shortness of breath.
- Trouble taking a deep breath
- Fatigue
- Frequent respiratory infections
In the United States, tobacco smoke is a key factor in the development and progression of COPD. Exposure to air pollutants in the home and workplace, environmental factors, genetic factors, and respiratory infections also play a role.
Diagnosis
To diagnose chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), symptoms will be evaluated and appropriate tests will be performed including:
- Pulmonary function test
- Chest X-ray
- Arterial Blood Gas test - ABG
Treatment
Treatment requires a careful and thorough evaluation. COPD treatment can alleviate symptoms, decrease the frequency and severity of exacerbation, and increase exercise tolerance. Treatment options to consider are:
- Pulmonary Rehabilitation
- Medication
- Supplemental Oxygen
- Surgery
- Quit Smoking