COPD, also known as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is a chronic lung condition that affects millions of people globally. It can progressively obstruct the flow of air in the lungs, leading to persistent difficulties in breathing. COPD encompasses two primary conditions - chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and these typically occur due to various environmental factors, including smoking and exposure to air pollution.

According to the NHS, It is estimated that there are more than 3 million people living with the disease in the UK, of which only about 900,000 have been diagnosed.

Causes and Symptoms of COPD

Smoking is considered the primary cause of COPD, with approximately 80-90% of cases resulting from cigarette smoking. Other causes include exposure to air pollution, occupational dust and chemicals, and genetic factors. 

Symptoms of COPD include 

• Cough with phlegm
• Shortness of breath (breathlessness)
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness
• Chest infections
• Excessive production of mucus

Symptoms may develop gradually over time and may not become noticeable until significant lung damage has occurred. Most people are diagnosed with COPD in their 50s.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options for COPD

COPD diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical exam, and diagnostic tests. Diagnostic tests may include pulmonary function tests, chest x-rays, and CT scans. 

Treatment options for COPD include medication, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and in severe cases, surgery. Oxygen therapy is often prescribed for patients with severe COPD to increase oxygen levels in the blood. Pulmonary rehabilitation involves exercise, breathing techniques, and education on managing COPD symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be required, including lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplant.

COPD Care and Management at Home

Lifestyle Changes

Here are some lifestyle changes that can help COPD patients manage their condition more effectively:

• Quit Smoking
• Regular Exercise and physical activity improving cardiovascular health and breathing efficiency.
• Eating a Healthy diet (especially for older adults) and maintaining a healthy weight

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting an exercise program to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs. Understanding Physical Fitness and Exercise for Seniors can be very helpful for older adults.

Medications

While there is no cure for COPD, proper management can improve quality of life and slow the progression of the disease. 

Bronchodilators

Bronchodilators are a class of medication that work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. They are used commonly and can be taken in different forms such as inhalers, nebulizers or pills. Short-acting bronchodilators are used to provide immediate relief of symptoms while long-acting bronchodilators are used to provide long-term control.

Inhaled corticosteroids

Inhaled corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation in the airways, which helps to reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations. Inhaled corticosteroids are often used in combination with bronchodilators for optimal COPD management.

Combination medications

Combination medications are a class of medication that contain both a bronchodilator and an inhaled corticosteroid in one inhaler. They are designed to simplify COPD management by reducing the number of inhalers needed.

Respiratory Therapy and Breathing Techniques

Respiratory therapy and breathing techniques aim to improve their lung function and reduce symptoms. These techniques can help patients breathe easier, reduce shortness of breath, and improve overall lung health.

Airway Clearance Techniques help clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe. These include chest physiotherapy, percussion, vibration, and postural drainage.

Breathing exercises can help strengthen the respiratory muscles and improve lung function. These exercises include diaphragmatic breathing, pursed-lip breathing, and deep breathing.

Pursed-lip breathing involves breathing in slowly through the nose and breathing out slowly through the mouth with pursed lips. 

Improving your Living Space

Ensuring proper indoor air quality free from allergens and irritants. Common culprits include pet dander, mould, dust mites, and cigarette smoke.

Ensure proper ventilation. If your home is poorly ventilated, it can trap harmful pollutants and exacerbate your COPD symptoms.

Consider using an air purifier or dehumidifier. These devices can help remove pollutants from the air and maintain a healthy humidity level in your home.

Monitoring COPD at Home

COPD is a chronic disease that requires careful management, especially when it comes to monitoring and managing its symptoms. COPD symptoms can range from mild to severe, and can worsen over time, leading to exacerbations that require immediate medical attention. Hence, patients must be vigilant in identifying warning signs of exacerbations.

Identifying warning signs and exacerbations

COPD patients must be familiar with the signs and symptoms of exacerbations, which can include increased shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, wheezing, and fatigue. 

It's important for COPD patients to monitor their symptoms and health vitals such as blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and respiration rate closely and seek medical attention if they experience any significant changes to keep their condition from worsening.

PCL Connect along with PCL Wellness watch can help monitor health vitals and keep a check on COPD.

COPD care plan

A COPD care plan is a written plan that outlines what to do if COPD symptoms worsen or an exacerbation occurs. The plan includes steps for managing symptoms, such as increasing medication or oxygen therapy, and when to seek medical attention. Usually your doctor or healthcare provider will create a care plan for you considering your personal needs and explain it to you.

Emergency preparedness

COPD patients should also be prepared for emergencies by having a list of emergency contacts, such as their doctor, family members, and local emergency services. They should also have a sufficient supply of medications and oxygen on hand, and be aware of the nearest hospital or medical facility in case of an emergency.

Conclusion