COPD

What do you know about COPD?

I'm sure you've heard of COPD somewhere along the way. But do you know what it means? 

COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It is a group of lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, chronic cough, and chronic shortness of breath. 

Symptoms of COPD include: 
1) Coughing
2) Wheezing
3) Shortness of breath

COPD is diagnosed using a medical history, lung function tests, X-rays, and sputum samples. 

Treatment options:

1) Quit smoking if you are a smoker

2) Bronchodilators- medications that help relax the muscles around your airways, which can help relieve coughing and shortness of breath. These usually come in the form of inhalers. They can be short acting or long acting inhalers.

3) Inhaled steroids (inhalers)- these help reduce airway inflammation and prevent respiratory exacerbations.

4) Oral steroids- reduce inflammation in the form of pills. Not for long term use.

5) Antibiotics- may be used to treat an infection if one is present.

6) Oxygen therapy- if there isn't enough oxygen in the blood, supplemental oxygen may be required.

7) Respiratory rehabilitation- this includes exercise training for lungs, nutrition advice, and counselling on how to work with your condition.

Understanding more about this condition can help with understand treatment options for you or your family.

Jenilee

Don’t hesitate to call Jenilee at 1-306-831-7418 to book your appointment for you or your loved one.