Chronic respiratory diseases were responsible for nearly 4 million deaths in 2017. Some of the most common conditions include asthma, pulmonary hypertension, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
In fact, COPD is the third leading cause of death in the world, according to the WHO.
While it’s not curable, there are
treatments that can help control symptoms and slow down disease progression.
In our medical corner, we’ll be
discussing some of these medications, as well as some other essential facts
about the disease.
Keep reading to learn more about the
topic!
What
Is COPD?
COPD is a chronic inflammatory lung
disease that covers two types of progressive conditions: emphysema and chronic
bronchitis, both of which are usually caused by smoking.
Emphysema: A lung condition in which the air sacs in the lungs become
damaged. Over time, the inner walls of these sacs will weaken and rupture,
creating one big air pocket instead of many small ones. This reduction in surface
area will trap oxygen in the damaged tissue and prevent it from moving through
the bloodstream.
Chronic Bronchitis: A type of COPD that involves long-term inflammation of the
bronchi (the large passages that lead from the trachea to the lungs). This
causes the glands in the airways to produce a thick layer of mucus, which
blocks air from passing through to the lungs.
Common COPD
Symptoms
Symptoms may be mild at the
beginning. Some people may even mistake them for a cold. For example, it can
cause occasional shortness of breath, mild cough, and a need to clear your
throat often.
As the disease progresses, however,
you may experience shortness of breath, especially after exercise. Not only
that, but it can also cause wheezing, chronic cough (with or without mucus),
chest tightness, and lack of energy.
In the later stages, it can also
cause swelling of the legs, feet, or ankles. Seek medical attention right away
if you have bluish lips or fingernails as it indicates low oxygen levels in
your blood.
COPD
Medications and Treatments
Various medications can help reduce
COPD symptoms. For example, your doctor may prescribe an inhaled
bronchodilator; it’ll help loosen the muscles in your airways, which will make
it easier to breathe.
There are two types—short-acting
bronchodilators, which are used on an as-needed basis, and long-acting
bronchodilators e.g Trelegy Ellipta which provide relief for many hours. They’re often used in combination with
inhaled glucocorticosteroids to lower mucus production and reduce inflammation.
Oxygen therapy may also be necessary
if your blood oxygen level drops too low. It’ll increase the amount of oxygen
that flows into your bloodstream, which will help you breathe better.
Medical
Corner: COPD Explained
Hopefully, our medical corner has
given you a better idea as to what COPD is and how it’s treated. For those who
are experiencing symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider—they’ll be able to
determine the best treatment option for you.
Did you find this guide helpful? We
have more posts like this in the health section of our blog. Check it out
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