Copd (Chronic Bronchitis And Emphysema)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a general term for a progressive, irreversible lung condition caused by chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or a combination of the two.

Chronic bronchitis causes your lungs to produce excessive amounts of mucus. This reduces the flow of air to the lungs.

Emphysema is a disease in which the small air exchange sacs in the lungs become permanently enlarged and damaged, decreasing oxygen absorption and resulting in shortness of breath.

As the disease worsens, it becomes harder to get enough air, even when at rest. Eventually, oxygen therapy may be needed to help you get enough oxygen.

80-90% of all COPD cases are caused b smoking. Other factors such as family history, occupational exposure to certain dusts and fumes, air pollution, second-hand smoke and asthma probably play a role as well.

HOW IS COPD MANAGED?

Although COPD cannot be reversed or cured, it is possible to manage its symptoms and improve your quality of life. The progression of COPD and the severity of symptoms can be controlled through:

• Smoking cessation
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Appropriate activity
• Good nutrition
• Preventing infection
• Medication

Quitting smoking can restore some lung function, and slows down the rate at which lung function decreases.

Regular exercise will make it easier for you to carry out your daily activities. Ask your doctor what level of activity would be best for you. People with COPD are more likely to get influenza (the flu) and pneumonia, and will be sicker for a longer time. A pneumococcus (pneumonia) shot and yearly flu shots are recommended in order to reduce this risk, even if you are planning on traveling to a warmer climate.

There are a number of prescription medications available to manage the symptoms of COPD. Bronchodilators can be used regularly or on an as-needed basis to prevent or reduce symptoms. Main classes of bronchodilators are:

• Short-acting beta agonists (i.e., salbutamol)
• Long-acting beta agonists (i.e., salmeterol)
• Anticholinergics (i.e., ipratopium)

If your symptoms are not controlled, other medications may be prescribed, such as an inhaled steroid. Make sure you review your medication use and inhaler technique with your doctor or pharmacist on a regular basis.

If your symptoms suddenly get worse, notify your doctor.