By Dr. Jeffrey Wheeler, MDwise Chief Medical Director
What is COPD?
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), often referred to as “emphysema” and “chronic bronchitis”, is a common breathing problem. COPD is caused by scarring and damage to your lung. Smoking is the most common cause of this damage. People with these problems may have a cough that is regular or comes and goes, shortness of breath that comes and goes or both. Sometimes people notice a wheezing sound, but this does not happen to everyone with COPD. About one out of 10 people over 40 years old have COPD. As it is one of the most common causes of death, we are going to discuss some important points that you should know about COPD.
First, understand that COPD and asthma are not the same problem. Although people with these problems use inhaled medicines, the inhalers are slightly different. Next, your doctor should ask that you do certain lung tests that measure how severely your lungs are affected by COPD. The results of these tests help tell the doctor which inhaled medicines to use.
People with COPD are more likely to get lung infections like pneumonia. So be sure to call your provider right away if your cough gets worse, if you are coughing up more sputum or are more short of breath than usual.
Understand your medications.
You must use the medicines exactly like your doctor tells you. Most inhaled medicines are used every day to help you feel better and do not work well, or at all, if you only use them only when you are feeling poorly. However, you will also have a “rescue” inhaler that is used only when you are feeling sick or short of breath. Be sure you understand which medicine is the “rescue” inhaler and which ones are to be used daily.
Always take all of your medicines to your doctor appointments. Your doctor will want to show you how to use these medicines.
What else can I do to feel better and be healthier?
If you smoke, you must quit. Even one cigarette per day can lead to more lung damage. Please do not vape as this also irritates your lungs. You also should be sure to get your vaccinations, especially the pneumonia, flu, COVID-19, RSV and pertussis vaccines. Your doctor will also recommend that you get more active in your life and eat healthier. Your doctor may have you do a specific exercise program for people with COPD (called “pulmonary rehab”).
Will I need oxygen?
Some people with COPD do need oxygen. Some people only need to use it when they are active or sleeping while others need to use oxygen at all times. Your doctor may order certain tests to see if you need oxygen.
Sources:
American Lung Association www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd