Can't Ever Catch Your Breath? You May Have COPD

COPD is short for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. This is a term referring to progressive lung disorders such as emphysema, chronic asthma, bronchitis, and similar diseases characterized by regular and increasing breathlessness, frequent coughing, wheezing, and tightness of the chest.

Is COPD Common?

COPD afflicts a global estimate of 10 percent of people aged 40 and over. More than half of these sufferers may not even be aware that they have COPD. Failure to diagnose and treat COPD in its early stages could lead to severe loss of lung capacity that can't be reversed.

What Causes COPD?

The majority of cases come from exposure to pollutants and irritants. In most cases this comes from tobacco products, but may also come from occupational lung hazards. A genetic vulnerability to lung problems can also play a role in developing COPD.

Smoking

COPD doesn't catch up to chronic smokers until they are in their 40s. This can also include those who have quit smoking earlier, but after the damage occurred. Not all smokers will get COPD, but up to 90 percent of those who suffer from it are former or current smokers of pipes, cigars, or marijuana.

Environment

Those who regularly deal with pollutants in their jobs or their lifestyles can also develop COPD over time. This includes chemicals, dust, and air-borne particles, such as from agricultural, mining, or wood-working industries. Frequent use of fire or other organic fuels can also lead to excessive inhalation of pollutants.

Genetics

Genetic tendencies toward COPD are now associated with the lack of a protein called Alpha-1 Antitrypsin. This leads to over-active white blood cells that can deteriorate the lung tissue. This is an inheritable condition known as AATD, or Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency. Clinical tests can determine if this is the case, but not all people with AATD suffer from lung diseases. Other genetic factors may be involved.

Treatment

You should ask your doctor about a spirometry test, which measures the function of your lungs. Early treatments include doing breathing exercises, avoiding smoking and pollutants, or using medicated inhalers. Severe cases of COPD may require respiratory home care. Your physician might recommend therapies to supply your lungs with additional oxygen. If this is the case, you should contact a respiration therapist from Corner Home Medical or a similar organization who can evaluate your oxygen needs and provide the best equipment. COPD can often take years to develop. However, symptoms become worse over time. Speak with your doctor if you show signs of COPD.