COPD: Symptoms and Treatment
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is the obstruction of the passage of air through the lungs usually caused by cigarette smoke or other harmful compounds. The disease sets in after that there is a persistent picture of bronchitis or pulmonary emphysema. The first causes a permanent state of inflammation in the lungs, while the second destroys the alveoli, which are the structures that promote gas exchanges in the organ. The condition is dangerous because, in addition to the potential to stop breathing for good, it decreases the circulation of oxygen in the blood and triggers inflammatory substances throughout the body. The risk of heart attack and stroke doubles. Patients may also suffer from muscle weakness, impaired reasoning and even become more subject to depression.
Despite being frequently associated with cigarettes, about one third of those affected by COPD have never smoked. Common symptoms of COPD include:
increasing breathlessness – this may only happen when exercising at first, and you may sometimes wake up at night feeling breathless
a persistent chesty cough with phlegm that does not go away
frequent chest infections
persistent wheezing
The symptoms will usually get gradually worse over time and make daily activities increasingly difficult, although treatment can help slow the progression. Staying well away from smoking is the most effective way to prevent the problem. Regular checkups help because the symptoms can be confused with mere consequences of swallowing or aging. With this, the disorder progresses without raising suspicion and treatment becomes more difficult. New evidence suggests that a balanced diet also influences COPD. While the consumption of excess processed meats can harm the lungs, a menu full of fruits, greens, vegetables and grains collaborates in the maintenance of the organ.
A test called spirometry measures the strength of a person's breath and attests to COPD if the airflow is weak. To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor evaluates complaints related to breathing and tiredness and requests other tests. This is the case with chest x-rays and oximeters, which measure the oxygen content in the blood. The disease has no cure, but a series of measures keeps it under control and, as far as possible, restores some of the lung function. Bronchodilator medications, which improve breathing, are the most used, but anti-inflammatory drugs can also end up prescribed in some cases. When the oxygen concentration in the blood is very low, the individual needs to undergo therapy to supplement his breath. Other than that, you should always be aware of the so-called acute exacerbations, peaks of disease worsening that can lead to respiratory failure if not treated immediately.
Respiratory infections trigger seizures and worsen the condition, which is why the doctor generally recommends flu vaccination every year. Physical activities are also important in the treatment, since problems in muscle fibers are common in those who have the disease. In addition to strengthening the muscles, the exercise also combats the inflammation in the lungs typical of the condition.
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