Learning to live with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Admin November 15, 2017
Learning to live with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

copdThe rise in the number of respiratory disorders is becoming a major cause of concern and is attributed to the ever increasing pollution. In 2015, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) recorded 3.2 million deaths worldwide, which is 8 times more than the deaths recorded in 1990.
COPD is a group of lung conditions that lead to difficulty in breathing, cough, mucus (sputum) production and wheezing. It’s caused by long term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most often from cigarette smoke. People with COPD are at increased risk of developing heart disease, lung cancer and a variety of other conditions.

It is explained that COPD leads to serious problems in those who are not in good health. A respiratory infection in these patients can cause 10 per cent decline in body functioning, which is dangerous.

COPD is often a mix of two diseases:

• Chronic bronchitis. In chronic bronchitis, the airways that carry air to the lungs (bronchial tubes) get inflamed and make a lot of mucus.
• Emphysema. Emphysema is a condition in which the alveoli at the end of the smallest air passages (bronchioles) of the lungs are destroyed as a result of damaging exposure to cigarette smoke and other irritating gases and particulate matter.

What are the main causes of COPD?

COPD is caused due to tobacco smoking, exposure to toxic fumes, burning of fuel and also air pollution. The increasing incidence according to the recent report is due to rising vehicular pollution in cities, which is affecting children, senior citizens and also those who are immunocompromised. Irritants from cigar or cigarette smoke affect secondhand smokers, who are also found to be at risk. Dust and smoke at construction sites as well as the fumes from chemical factories are some of the reasons why workers develop this disease. COPD develops over the years and is mostly seen after 40 years of age.

Other possible causes of COPD include:
• Long-term exposure to lung irritants such as industrial dust and chemical fumes
• Preterm birth that leads to lung damage (neonatal chronic lung disease)
• Inherited factors (genes), including alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency

What precautions are to be taken by those suffering from COPD?
In most COPD patients, we have found that infection is caused due to infrequent hand washing, making it easier for the flu and cold germs to get passed. When in public areas, COPD patients are advised to not touch their face frequently as the germs get transmitted.
Are COPD patients in a delicate situation throughout the year?
With temperatures going low, the viruses are active from July onwards. Hence, people who are suffering from COPD must opt for vaccination every year. They must get vaccinated against influenza (flu) and pneumonia as it can get life-threatening for them.

Is it possible to self-monitor the disease?
Breathing patterns can be monitored by people using a peak flow meter (Spirometry) regularly. This monitor gives an insight into the ability to exhale, which gives an insight into how well they are breathing. If the breathing gets worse, it is an early warning sign that the person is sick. But the problem is people do not take these signs and symptoms seriously. Late admissions require aggressive treatment modules, which take time for the patient to bounce back.

How can you live well with COPD?
• Avoid things that can irritate your lungs, such as smoke and air pollution.
• Use an air filter in your home.
• Get regular exercise to stay as strong as you can.
• Eat well so you can keep up your strength. If you are losing weight, ask your doctor or dietitian about ways to make it easier to get the calories you need.

Who should get tested for COPD?
If you have any of these SYMPTOMS, you are at risk for developing COPD.

Anyone with the following should get tested:
• Has a history of smoking
• Has long-term exposure to air pollutants (including pollution and second-hand smoke)1
• Has chronic coughing with or without sputum
• Has wheezing
• Has shortness of breath that has become worse over time.

Ways to Prevent COPD

  • Hand Washing
  • Stop Smoking
  • Avoid Secondhand Smoke
  • Avoid Air Pollution
  • Avoid Occupational Exposures
  • Know Your Family History

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