Full form of COPD
"Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease" is the full form of COPD. COPD includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, makes the breathing difficult for the 16 million Americans diagnosed with it. Millions more have COPD but are undiagnosed and untreated. It can limit your ability to work or even do simple everyday tasks. COPD can also make it more likely that you will get seriously ill from COVID-19.
Symptoms of COPD
COPD symptoms don't appear until significant lung damage has occurred, and also they usually worsen over time, if smoking exposure continues.
Symptoms and sign of COPD include-
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing
- Lack of energy
- A chronic cough which produce mucus (sputum) that may be clear, yellow,white, or greenish
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activities
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Unintended weight loss (in later stages)
- Swelling in ankles, feet, or legs
Treatment of COPD
If someone have COPD, the most important steps they can take to reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life are:
- Stop smoking- The most important part of treatment for people who smoke is to quit smoking.
- Avoid tobacco and the other air pollutants at home and job.
Doctor consider the following treatment options mentioned below:
- Medicine: Symptoms such as wheezing or coughing can be treated with medication.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation: A personalized treatment program that thought how to manage the COPD symptoms to improve the quality of life. Plans can include learning to breathe better, conserve energy, and different types of food and exercise suit you.
- Treatment and prevention of lung infections: Lung infections can cause severe problems in people with COPD. Some vaccines, such as the flu and pneumonia, are essential for people with COPD.
- Supplemental oxygen: A portable oxygen tank may be needed if blood oxygen levels are low.
When to see a doctor
Talk to your doctor if the symptoms are not improving with the treatment or if you notice signs of an infection or getting worse, such as a change in sputum or fever. Seek immediate medical care if you can't catch your breath, if you suffer severe blueness of your lips or fingernail beds (cyanosis) or a rapid heartbeat, or if you feel foggy and also have trouble concentrating.