Over 12 million Americans live with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a term used to usually describe a disease that affects the lungs and makes breathing difficult.
What are the signs and symptoms of COPD?
There may be no symptoms in the early stages of the disease, as increased breathlessness and coughing can be mistaken as a normal part of aging. Symptoms are noticeable in the more developed stages of the disease. Carmichael’s recommends that you talk to your doctor as soon as you notice any of these symptoms.
- Increased breathlessness during physical activities
- Chronic coughing that produces a lot of mucus
- Wheezing when breathing
- Tightness in the chest
What Causes COPD?
Most cases of COPD are caused by smoking tobacco products such as cigarettes, and continuous second-hand smoke. Long-term contact with chemicals and fumes in work environments is also a contributing factor. Genetics can play a role in an individual’s development of the disease, too.
Treatment of COPD
A diagnosis of COPD is not a death sentence. It can be managed with a good treatment plan for individuals to live more active lives. The most important step in treatment is quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke exposure whenever possible. Individuals may be prescribed medications that include inhalers and oral steroids. Surgery is also an option when medications are not effective.
Oxygen therapy is another common form of treatment that improves the quality of life. Carmichael’s offers several devices that deliver oxygen to the lungs, such as oxygen concentrators, portable oxygen cylinders, nebulizers and inhalation drugs. Carmichael’s representatives work with the patient’s physician and train the patient and caregiver in the correct usage of the equipment. Feel free to contact a Carmichael’s representative to discuss any respiratory therapy equipment products and supplies needs.