COPD is a progressive disease, provided with the right diagnosis and treatment, COPD is manageable.
Emphysema: The damage is to the alveoli (air sacs) causes emphysema.
Chronic Bronchitis: The damage to the bronchial tubes causes chronic bronchitis.
Refractory (non-reversible) asthma: This is a type of asthma that does not respond to usual asthma medications.
Symptoms Of COPD
Chronic cough
Fatigue
Wheezing
Cyanosis
Excessive sputum
Respiratory infections
Shortness of breath
Stages of COPD
Mild: The airflow is limited, but is not noticed much. Cough and mucus productions occurs every once in a while.
Moderate: The airflow is worse. Often felt short of breath after doing something active. This is the point where most people notice symptoms and get help.
Severe: The airflow and shortness of breath are worse. Impossible to perform normal exercise anymore. The symptoms flare up frequently, also called an exacerbation.
Very severe: The airflow is limited, the flares are more regular and intense, and the quality of life is poor.
Causes of COPD
Smoking
Exposure to pollution
Alpha-1 deficiency
Risk factors of COPD
Age
Genetics
Exposure to tobacco smoke
People with asthma who smoke
Occupational exposure to dust and chemicals
Exposure to fumes from burning fuel
COPD and comorbid conditions
Arthritis
Depression
Diabetes
Sleep Apnea
Heart disease
High cholesterol
High blood pressure
Diagnosis of COPD
Spirometry
Chest X-ray
Blood tests
Goals of Treatment of COPD
Relieving the symptoms
Slowing the progression of the disease
Improving exercise tolerance or the ability to stay active
Preventing and treating complications
Improving the overall health
Management of COPD
Quitting smoking and other lung irritants
Pulmonary rehabilitation
Medications such as bronchodilators
Oxygen therapy
Surgery (Bullectomy, lung volume reduction surgery, lung transplant)
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