Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Understanding Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
What is COPD?
COPD is a group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it difficult to breathe. The two main types are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Most people with COPD have both conditions.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Smoking (leading cause)
- Long-term exposure to lung irritants
- Air pollution
- Chemical fumes and dust
- Genetic factors (alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency)
- Secondhand smoke
- Recurrent lung infections
When to Seek Help
- Severe shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Blue lips or fingernails
- Confusion or difficulty thinking
- High fever with worsening symptoms
- Sudden worsening of usual symptoms
- Call for emergency help immediately
Signs and Symptoms
Early Symptoms
- Chronic cough with mucus or phlegm
- Shortness of breath during everyday activities (also called dyspnea)
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Inability to take a deep breath
Advanced Symptoms
- Severe shortness of breath at rest
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Fatigue and weakness
Treatment Options
Medications
- Bronchodilators: Open airways
- Inhaled steroids: Reduce inflammation
- Combination inhalers
- Biologics: target inflammatory pathways and aim to reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations
Non Pharmacological Treatments
- Lifestyle changes: smoking cessation, exercise
- Oxygen therapy: For low oxygen levels
- Pulmonary Rehab: Exercise training, disease management education, counseling
- Surgery: In severe cases (i.e. lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplant)
During Your Hospital Stay
What to Expect
- Oxygen monitoring and therapy
- Breathing treatments and medications
- Chest X-rays and lung function tests
- Education about managing COPD at home
How You Can Help
- Take medications as prescribed
- Practice breathing exercises
- Ask questions about your treatment
- Follow activity restrictions