Basics of COPD

What is COPD? Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a term used for chronic lung diseases including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is characterized by breathlessness, tiredness, and a chronic cough with or without mucus. While COPD is not curable, it is treatable and manageable with the right care.

Symptoms of COPD COPD symptoms vary from person to person and can be more or less severe at times. Common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Frequent coughing with or without mucus
• Wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe)
• Chest tightness

Many people with COPD also have other chronic diseases, called comorbidities, such as heart problems, obesity, asthma, and allergies. It's important to inform your healthcare provider about all your symptoms.

Causes of COPD The main causes of COPD include:

• Smoking: The most common cause in high-income countries. Quitting smoking can slow the progression of COPD.
• Inhaled Irritants: Breathing in substances like smoke, chemical fumes, and dust can cause COPD.
• Genetics: Conditions like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (Alpha-1) can cause COPD. This genetic condition leads to a lack of a protein that protects the lungs from inflammation.

Getting Tested for COPD A simple breathing test called spirometry can help determine if you have COPD. Spirometry measures lung volume and the speed of air you can blow out of your lungs. It is crucial to have this test if you:

• Experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Are a current or former smoker
• Have been exposed to poor air quality
• Have already been diagnosed with COPD

Managing COPD Management of COPD involves medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes supplemental oxygen.

• Medications: These include short-acting and long-acting bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, oral corticosteroids, and antibiotics for flare-ups.
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Exercise: Exercise can improve breathing and overall well-being. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs provide exercise, education, and support.
• Oxygen Therapy: For those with low oxygen levels, supplemental oxygen may be prescribed.

COPD Flare-ups (Exacerbations) COPD symptoms can suddenly worsen due to infections, weather changes, or pollution. Signs of a flare-up include:

• Fever
• Increased shortness of breath or coughing
• Changes in mucus color, thickness, or amount
• Unusual tiredness
• New or increased swelling in the legs

Living Well with COPD Living with COPD requires ongoing management and lifestyle adjustments. Tips for living well include:

• Following your treatment plan and taking medications as prescribed
• Quitting smoking and avoiding lung irritants
• Staying active and participating in pulmonary rehabilitation
• Monitoring symptoms and seeking medical help for flare-ups

For more detailed information and resources, visit the COPD Foundation website at

http://copdf.co/videos ​

Learn more here: Basics COPD