Tackling COPD

I have had several friends now struggle with coughing incessantly. They have both been diagnosed with COPD often confused with emphysema but not quite the same.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) refers to two lung diseases—chronic bronchitis and emphysema (often co-existing), and is the fourth leading cause of death in America. Obstructing airflow, COPD is usually but not always caused by cigarette smoke (80-90% of COPD deaths), or inhaling chemicals, dust or pollution for a long time.

According to the National Institute of Health, “The airways branch out like an upside-down tree. At the end of each branch are small, balloon-like air sacs. Healthy airways and sacs are clear and open, elastic and springy. In COPD patients, they lose their shape and become floppy. The airway walls become thick and inflamed (swollen), and the walls between the sacs are destroyed. The airway cells produce more mucus, become clogged, and cause a continual cough.

Chronic bronchitis is the inflammation and scarring of the bronchial tube lining, and emphysema causes permanent holes in the lung tissue. Shortness of breath and coughing is the result. Symptoms can begin as early as 32-40 years of age but are often left untreated, resulting in incurable respiratory problems and even heart failure.

COPD limits physical movement, affects involvement in family and social activities, impacts the ability to do household chores and even work. Patients may eventually rely on mechanical respiratory assistance—supplemental oxygen and even ventilators.

Though there’s no cure, there is treatment. Medications don’t modify long-term decline, but can provide relief. Bronchodilator medications (inhaled as aerosol sprays or taken orally) relax and open air way passages. Oxygen therapy, antibiotics and steroids are used in acute cases, as steroids, in particular, can cause serious side effects long-term. Lung transplantation is more common now, but those with severe emphysema are at higher risk of death from the procedure.

COPD patients should be vaccinated for pneumonia and influenza. They should quit smoking, avoid pollutants, and increase exercise under a physician’s supervision. Visit www.lungusa.org.