The ABCs of COPD

Did you know that Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) affects millions of people nationwide and is the third leading cause of death by disease in the United States? If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with COPD, understanding the basics can help you take control of your health. At North Jersey Pulmonary Associates, we view educating our patients on their respiratory health as a top priority. 

Understanding the basics

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common yet often misunderstood lung condition that progressively limits airflow, making breathing increasingly difficult. It encompasses chronic bronchitis, marked by airway inflammation and excess mucus production, and emphysema, which damages the lung's air sacs. Individuals with COPD experience increasing airflow obstruction and worsening breathing problems over time.

What Causes COPD?

While you can reduce some risk factors for COPD, some people are predisposed to develop the condition. The primary cause of COPD is long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most commonly from cigarette smoke. According to statistics, smoking accounts for as many as 8 out of 10 COPD-related deaths. However, COPD can also develop from:

• Long-term exposure to workplace dust, chemicals, and fumes
• Air pollution
• Secondhand smoke exposure
• Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a rare genetic condition
• Frequent respiratory infections during childhood

Recognizing the symptoms

With COPD, awareness is essential. The reason is that many people mistake the symptoms for normal aging or being "out of shape," and symptoms often don't appear until significant lung damage has occurred. 

Individuals with COPD may experience many of the symptoms listed below:

• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activities
• Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing
• Chest tightness
• Chronic cough, often with mucus production
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Lack of energy
• Unintended weight loss (in later stages)
• Swelling in ankles, feet, or legs

In all cases, seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and care.

In all cases, seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and care.

Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective management and care

Remember, early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life. Diagnostic tests to visualize your lungs, look for signs of COPD, and assess your breathing may include chest X-rays, CT scans, spirometry, arterial blood gas analysis, and other laboratory studies.

Living with COPD

While there is no cure, proper treatment for COPD can control symptoms, reduce the risk of complications, and improve one's quality of life. The most critical step for COPD patients who smoke is to quit smoking! We also recommend regular physical activity tailored to your capabilities to maintain muscle strength and lung function and to follow a nutritious, healthy diet. Avoid respiratory irritants, including secondhand smoke, air pollution, and workplace exposure.

Medication, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation

In addition to recommending lifestyle changes, we may prescribe various medications to relax the muscles around the airways, reduce inflammation, prevent exacerbation, and treat bacterial infections that can exacerbate one's COPD. Supplemental oxygen is helpful for patients with low blood oxygen levels, while pulmonary rehabilitation programs and learning breathing techniques can help reduce shortness of breath to make respiration easier. Very severe cases of COPD— that haven't responded to other treatments may require surgical intervention ranging from removing damaged lung tissue or air spaces to lung transplantation.

Get the support that’s needed to breathe easier

At the office of North Jersey Pulmonary Associates, you can rest assured your respiratory health is in the best of hands. We provide skilled, compassionate care to help people dealing with COPD breathe easier and live active and fulfilling lives. From diagnosis to personalized treatment, our team is here to help you every step of the way.