Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Description of COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – long-term lung disease. COPD makes it difficult to move air into and back out of the lungs and makes breathing difficult. COPD includes:

• Эmfizema – damage to the air sacs of the lungs;
• Chronic bronchitis – damage to the airways of lungs.

These two diseases differ in their impact on the type of lung tissue. Nonetheless, they are often found in conjunction with one another. Causes and treatment of each disease are the same.

The causes of COPD

COPD cause lung damage. This damage is caused by:

• Cigarette smoking;
• Inhaling toxins or other irritants;
• Genetic predisposition, making the light more vulnerable to damage from smoke or pollutant (including alpha-1-antitrypsin).

Risk factors for COPD

Factors, that may increase the risk of COPD include:

• Cigarette smoking;
• Long-term exposure to second-hand smoke (passive smoking);
• The presence of family members with COPD;
• Exposure to pollutants;
• History of frequent childhood lung infections;
• Age: 40 and older.

Symptoms of COPD

Early symptoms of COPD include:

• Cough;
• Increased production of sputum (mucus from the lungs);
• Crepitation;
• Shortness of breath on exertion.

As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

• Increased shortness of breath;
• The feeling of suffocation when in the room;
• Fatigue;
• Problems with concentration;
• Problems with heart;
• Weight loss;
• Breathing through pursed lips;
• Desire to lean forward, to improve breathing.

Diagnosis of COPD

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical examination.

To test the pulmonary function can be assigned the following Tests:

• Testing of lung function (spirometry) – to check the power of breathing;
• Blood test, to determine the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.

The doctor may need to examine the detailed pictures of lungs. For their implementation apply:

• Chest X-ray;
• CT scan.

Treatment of COPD

For chronic obstructive pulmonary disease there is no cure methods. Treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Treatment includes:

Smoking Cessation

Quitting smoking slows the disease. This is the most important part of treatment. There are many programs, to help you quit smoking:

• Behavior change programs;
• Medication;
• The combination of medication and behavioral programs.

Environmental monitoring

Limit the number of irritants in the air, you breathe. It may help make breathing easier. Avoid smoke, dust, Smog, heat or cold, and high altitudes.

Medication in patients with COPD

Treatments for COPD can help:

• The opening of the airways;
• Easing tensions airways;
• Reduce inflammation;
• Treat pulmonary infections (antibiotics).

Certain medicines may be administered in the form of tablets or liquids. Other medications, by inhalation, delivered directly into the lungs.

Vaccination

Flu and pneumonia could worsen symptoms of COPD. Get vaccinated against pneumonia and flu shot. The flu vaccine can also reduce the attacks of COPD.

Oxygen

Oxygen therapy may be helpful, if the oxygen level in blood is too low. It can relieve respiratory problems. Oxygen therapy may be administered in the form of procedures or on an ongoing basis.

Exercises

Special exercises can strengthen chest muscles. It can make breathing easier.

Regular physical activity can help reduce the stress on the lungs and increase endurance. Physical activity is also associated with improvements in quality of life. Follow your doctor's recommendations to limit the level of physical activity.

Methods of breath and cough

Special breathing techniques can help breathe more air into the lungs. Effective methods of coughing can help clear mucus from the lungs. Ask the doctor, whether these techniques help you. Some methods include:

• Breathing through pursed lips;
• Equipment controlled cough.

Nutrition in COPD

• Eat a healthy diet, Low in saturated fat. It should also be rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grain foods;
• It is necessary to maintain a healthy weight. Obesity causes strain on the lungs and heart;
• Try eating several small meals throughout the day;
• Slow down the pace of eating. This will facilitate breathing;
• If you need to gain weight, gradually increase the amount of food or drink. Consult with a nutritionist about, how many calories you need every day.

Lifestyle changes

Actions, that can help you manage your COPD symptoms and avoid flare:

• Limit the intensity of physical activity;
• Learn relaxation techniques and other methods, allowing to cope with stress;
• Seek emotional support from professionals, family and friends. Anxiety can increase the rate of respiration and increased physical strain.

Operation in COPD

A small number of patients may benefit from surgery to remove part of the lung. It may also be performed lung transplant.

Prevention of COPD

To reduce the risk of COPD:

• If you smoke, to throw;
• Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke;
• Avoid exposure to air pollution or irritants;
• Wear protective clothing when exposed to irritants or toxins at work.