How to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and its causes: COPD is a group of lung diseases that cause chronic difficulty breathing, such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
COPD occurs due to damage and narrowing of the air sacs in the lungs and airways, making it difficult to expel air.
A primary cause of COPD is prolonged exposure to air pollution and smoke. Asthma can also contribute to the development of the condition. Symptoms are managed with medications that help open the airways.
Symptoms of COPD
Signs of COPD include:
- Difficulty breathing.
- Chest tightness with wheezing.
- Persistent cough with phlegm.
- Bluish discoloration of the lips and fingertips.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Need to clear the throat of accumulated phlegm.
- Shortness of breath while speaking.
What are the causes of COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is usually caused by smoking, which is a major contributing factor. The longer someone smokes, the greater their risk of developing COPD.
Other contributing factors include prolonged and continuous exposure to polluted air and inhaling irritants. Asthma and a family history of COPD can also increase the risk.
Treatment of COPD
There is no cure for COPD. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing disease progression through lifestyle changes and medications such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids.
In addition to lifestyle modifications like smoking cessation, doctors may recommend oxygen therapy, which is often necessary in advanced cases to reduce shortness of breath. Influenza and pneumonia vaccinations are also important to reduce the risk of developing COPD.
How is COPD diagnosed
Initially, the treating physician relies on the patient's medical history to diagnose chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A physical examination is then performed. Other diagnostic procedures include:
- Spirometry: This test assesses lung function. The patient breathes into a tube connected to a device that measures the amount of air inhaled, the amount exhaled, and the speed of exhalation.
- Chest X-ray: This is used to rule out conditions that mimic obstruction, such as lung cancer.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan of the lungs.
- Arterial blood gas analysis: This measures the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood.
Medications used to treat COPD include
- Vilatriplo inhalation capsules.
- Combivent solution.
- Vental tablets.
- Westabreath tablets.
- Rivaxarelt tablets.
- Inhalex capsules.
- Sagitrixan tablets.
- Swabivent inhalation solution.
Natural Herbs for Treating Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
There are some natural herbs used to prevent infection and reduce inflammation because they are anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, These herbs include:
- Ginger
- Turmeric
- Thyme
- Red Sage
- Echinacea
Important Tips for Living with COPD
- Quit smoking
- Avoid inhaling polluted air
- Avoid exposure to triggers that worsen symptoms, such as smoke
- Drink plenty of fluids to help clear mucus from the airways
- Avoid exposure to extremely cold or hot weather
- Practice effective breathing techniques, such as deep breathing and exhalation
- Get your annual flu shot
Is COPD a serious disease
COPD is considered a serious disease because it causes a gradual decline in lung function, leading to difficulty breathing. It can cause serious complications such as respiratory failure and heart disease, and increases the risk of respiratory infections.
What is the difference between COPD and asthma
The symptoms of COPD and asthma are similar, as both cause difficulty breathing and swelling of the airway walls. However, in asthma, breathing usually returns to normal after an attack, while in COPD, breathing often does not return to normal.
Article Summary
COPD is a group of chronic, non-communicable lung diseases that cause airway obstruction, resulting in difficulty breathing and chronic bronchitis.
The main causes of COPD are smoking and prolonged exposure to air pollution and irritants. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms through medications that help open the airways and dilate the bronchi.