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18 November 2020 10:00:31
Here’s what you need to know about the COPD condition. (Source: Getty Images / Thinkstock)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a debilitating condition that obstructs the flow of air from the lungs, thus hampering the ability to carry out daily activities with ease. Each year, November 18 is celebrated as World COPD Day to raise awareness of the chronic inflammatory lung condition. This year’s theme is “Living Well With COPD – Everyone, Everywhere,” so make sure you follow all the essential tips and improve the quality of your life, said Dr. Harish Chafle, intensive care counselor and chest physician, Global Hospital, Mumbai.
What is COPD?
Emphysema, a type of COPD which tends to damage the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs and chronic bronchitis which can lead to inflammation of the lining of the bronchi that carry air to and from the air sacs of the lungs, are the two most common conditions that can lead to COPD. Not only this, smoking and exposure to chemicals or pollution can also invite COPD.
The incidence of COPD is increasing due to poor ambient air quality in cities such as New Delhi and Mumbai. Additionally, commonly used things like mosquito repellent coils used at home can cause COPD as nighttime exposure to COPD was equivalent to smoking 100 cigarettes together.
COPD Symptoms
Symptoms of COPD include wheezing, chest tightness, respiratory difficulties, chronic cough, respiratory infections, fatigue, involuntary weight loss and swelling of the legs, feet and ankles. Additionally, some of the symptoms may overlap with Covid-19. So it is important to visit a doctor to make a correct diagnosis.
COPD treatment
* You will be advised to opt for pulmonary rehabilitation by your doctor. Severe cases may require lung transplants. Do not self-medicate and only take medications prescribed by your doctor. It is important to perform PFT or spirometry for the diagnosis of COPD.
* Take regular inhalers as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Inhalation therapy is the best way to treat diseases such as COPD as inhaled medications go to the site of the disease. Hence, they are less likely to have side effects than oral medications, Dr. Chafle said.
* Vaccination against influenza and pneumonia is required to avoid serious infections. These infections cause ICU admissions in COPD patients.
Exposure to ambient air itself can cause COPD as the air quality is poor. (Photo: Getty Images / Thinkstock)
Here’s how you can live better with COPD
No smoking
If you smoke regularly, stop immediately! Smoking tends to cause irritation and inflammation in the lungs. Try attending smoking cessation sessions that might be helpful.
Exercise
Try to stay physically active by running, walking, biking, swimming, aerobics, and even gymnastics and cut excess pounds. You will also have to do this breathing exercises as suggested by the doctor.
Keep stress at bay
Stress can aggravate your condition. Do yoga or meditation to calm down.
READ ALSO | Air pollution and COVID-19: risk of infection, precautions to be taken
Keep your surroundings clean
Make sure the air quality at home is good. There should be less indoor pollution. Clean curtains, carpets and prevent allergens and dust from entering the house. Also use a humidifier.
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