What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a lung condition that makes it difficult to breathe. It is often caused by smoking but can also be influenced by pollution and genetics.

Living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and support, you can take control of your lung health and improve your quality of life.

Recognizing symptoms of COPD

In your 40s or 50s, you may have:
- A mild cough that is dry initially then brings up clear sputum, usually in the morning
- Shortness of breath when you exercise or move around

In your 60s, you may have:
- Shortness of breath more of the time
- Pneumonia and other lung infections that may require more than normal hospital stays
- Weight loss
- Swelling of your legs
- Coughing up blood (rare, this may be a sign of lung cancer, that should be looked for)

After you've had COPD for a long time, you may notice:
- Your chest is bigger because air is trapped in your lungs
- Your skin has a blue tint because the oxygen in your blood is low
- You're short of breath even when you're not doing anything

Diagnosis and treatment of COPD

To diagnose COPD, your healthcare provider may perform a thorough evaluation, including a medical history review, physical examination, and pulmonary function tests. Once diagnosed, a comprehensive treatment plan will be developed to manage symptoms, slow down disease progression, and enhance your overall well-being.

While there is no cure for COPD, there are ways to manage it. The first step is quitting smoking, as it greatly improves the condition. Medications like inhalers can help open up the airways and reduce inflammation.

Medications: Depending on the severity of your COPD, your doctor may prescribe bronchodilators to relax and open the airways, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, or combination medications. These medications are typically administered through inhalers or nebulizers for maximum effectiveness.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Pulmonary rehabilitation programs can be beneficial in improving lung function and overall quality of life. It is important to avoid triggers such as smoke, dust, and chemical fumes and get vaccinated against respiratory infections.

Oxygen Therapy: For individuals with severe COPD and low blood oxygen levels, supplemental oxygen may be prescribed. Oxygen therapy can improve oxygen saturation, relieve breathlessness, and support daily activities.

Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential for managing COPD. This includes quitting smoking, avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke and environmental pollutants, maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active within your limitations, and managing stress effectively.