COPD – Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a group of progressive lung diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It is a serious disease which makes it difficult to breath owing to blocked airways that carry air in and out of the lungs. It can worsen over time making it harder for a person to breathe.

Currently, more than 16 million Americans are diagnosed with COPD and several million people have it, yet are unaware of the problem. COPD is a leading cause of deaths in the United States. Thus, if you are diagnosed with the problem, it is vital to look after yourself. If it is difficult to travel to your medical care provider, opt for in home health care services offered by Utah Doctors At Home.

COPD Symptoms

Symptoms of COPD develop slowly over many years and initially you may not be aware that you are suffering from COPD. Most people suffering from COPD don’t have recognizable symptoms until they reach their late 40s or 50s.

Common symptoms of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease include:

  • Chronic cough with or without mucus
  • Increasing breathlessness
  • Persistent wheezing
  • Frequent chest infection
  • Chest pain and chest tightness
  • Coughing up blood
  • Loss of energy

Symptoms can progress gradually and become hard to ignore. Moreover, if you smoke, the symptoms are more likely to be much worse.

Causes of COPD

In the United States, the single biggest cause of COPD is smoking. About 90% of patients suffering from COPD are smokers or former smokers. A majority of people suffering from COPD are in their mid-forties and have some history of smoking. In addition to cigarette smoke, pipe smoke, cigar smoke, and second-hand smoking can also cause COPD.

Here are few things that can increase your risk of developing COPD.

  • Fumes and dust
    You can get COPD from air pollution. Constant exposure to certain chemicals or dust at work can damage your lungs and make you prone to COPD.
  • Genetics
    You are more likely to develop COPD if you have a close relative suffering from the problem. Thus, some people’s genes make them vulnerable to this lung disease.
  • Asthma
    While it is not one of the most common causes, asthma can lead to COPD. If you don’t treat asthma in its initial stages, it can cause you a lifetime of damage.

Whatever the cause may be, remember, COPD is not contagious.

COPD Diagnosis

COPD can be diagnosed based on the symptoms, physical exam conducted by your doctor at home, and diagnostic test results.

Tell your in home health care services provider if you:

  • Have asthma
  • Are a smoker or a former smoker
  • Take prescription or over-the-counter medication
  • Are inhaling dangerous chemicals at work
  • Are exposed to second-hand smoking
  • Have a family history of COPD

The in home medical care service provider may ask you to undergo some tests to get a clear picture. These tests may include:

  • Chest X-ray
  • Spirometry
  • Arterial blood gas test

Lifestyle Changes To Breathe Better

If you are suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, you are not alone. Here are a few things you can do to breathe better.

  • Quit Smoking
    If you are diagnosed with COPD, make sure to quit smoking to prevent doing more damage to your lungs. Smoking can worsen your condition.
  • Drink Plenty Of Water
    A lot of people with COPD are dehydrated and thus need to drink plenty of water. However, check with your physician to know how much water you can safely drink as extra fluid can worsen the condition.
  • Learn Pursed-Lip Breathing
    Here’s a breathing exercise for patients suffering from COPD. Breathe in through your nose and blow out as much air as possible through pursed lips. This technique slows down the breathing rate while opening the airways.
  • Visit Your Physician Regularly
    If it is not possible to travel to your physician, opt for home health care services offered by Utah Doctors At Home. Discuss with your health care service provider if your current symptoms have worsened or there are some new symptoms.

If you are suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and are in need of in home health care services, call Utah Doctors At Home. From aging population to patients suffering from chronic disease who prefer to be treated at home, we provide high-quality medical care services in the comfort of your home at zero additional cost.

Call (385) 247-0050 for admission details!