COPD is an acronym for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease that affects more than five percent of the entire population of the United States. More than 120,000 Americans die of the disease every year. Those who suffer from COPD find it difficult to breathe because inflamed and thickened lungs prevent oxygen from getting into the body's tissues. Airflow decreases going into the body and coming out. This chronic condition is a group of progressive lung diseases that have contributed to the lung damage. COPD is the result of damage to the lungs that has occurred over the years, usually from smoking. Even though smoking is believed to be the most prevalent cause, certain environmental factors can contribute to the disease. It was once believed that the prognosis for patients with COPD was dire and that there was little hope for living a normal life. This is a condition that is preventable and can be successfully treated giving its sufferers a much improved quality of life. Recognizing the earliest symptoms is the first step toward getting a diagnosis and starting treatment to help them begin to control their shortness of breath and retake charge of their lives.
Common Types of COPD
Two well-known lung conditions contribute to the restriction of breathing and cause wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, and extreme prolonged bouts of fatigue. Even though these are separate conditions, some patients may suffer from both at once.
Chronic Bronchitis affects the bronchial tubes by causing persistent inflammation. In order to protect themselves, the bronchial passages begin to secrete mucus. When this occurs, the passageways become clogged and it becomes difficult to bring air in or let it out. Those who suffer from chronic bronchitis experience a persistent cough with white mucus that can last for months or years. Sometimes the symptoms of this condition and emphysema are difficult to distinguish. The difference is that the bronchial tubes receive damage with chronic bronchitis, while the air sacs in the lungs are affected with emphysema.
Emphysema damages the air sacs in the lungs and prevents the body from expelling enough air. It primarily affects smokers, but can also be found in others who regularly are exposed to and breathe in some irritants. The disease weakens the air sacs in the lungs, which makes it harder to breathe. This irreversible condition can be successfully treated to slow its progression.
COPD FAQ
Q: What causes COPD?
A: The most common cause of this disease is smoking tobacco. Smoke irritates the airways and damages the fibers in the lungs. It can also be caused by breathing chemical fumes and other toxic irritants. Air pollution can cause damage over an extended period.
Q: Who is most likely to develop COPD?
A: Smokers are at highest risk for contracting this disease. People over 40 years of age who have a history of smoking are also at risk. Anyone who suffered or still suffers from asthma is a candidate. Genetic factors can play a role in some people with a specific protein deficiency. Anyone who works on a daily basis with chemicals or noxious fumes is at high risk.
Q: What are the most common symptoms?
A: COPD symptoms are a combination of those that plague individuals with emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Shortness of breath is usually the earliest symptom followed by exhaustion, persistent cough, wheezing, coughing up mucus, chest tightness, and weight loss. Sufferers complain of having difficulty getting air in and out of the lungs.
Q: How is this disease diagnosed?
A: A doctor makes a diagnosis by first reviewing all symptoms and past medical history. A physical exam must be conducted and some routine breathing tests are administered. The breathing test most doctors use to make a diagnosis is called spirometry. This test measures lung capacity. Other tests may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis such as a chest X-ray or a blood test to measure oxygen levels.
Q: Why does COPD make it hard to breathe?
A: Air sacs in the lungs lose their ability to inflate and deflate because of COPD. When this happens, the many small airways just collapse making breathing difficult.
Q: What are some common treatments for COPD?
There are many different types of medications which may be prescribed in a combination. Another option is the use of oxygen therapy to improve shortness of breath and to prevent potential organ damage. Good nutrition will also assist, as will pulmonary rehabilitation. Finally, if nothing else is working, there are surgical options which can be attempted.
What are some ways to prevent COPD?
Smoking is the primary cause of COPD. The best way to prevent COPD is to never smoke at all. Stopping smoking after it starts helps reduce the risk of developing the disease. Because secondhand smoke can cause COPD, it is best to eliminate spending time around anyone who smokes. Avoid taking a job in an industry where toxic chemicals are in use.
