India has around 30 million Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients and it also contributes to the second-highest mortality from this disease. COPD claimed the lives of roughly 1 million people in 2017 in India. The rising pollution levels in the last two to three decades has contributed to this increased numbers. COPD is an incurable and progressive disease that causes inflammation in the lungs’ airways and the destruction of the air sacs that take oxygen from the air and discharge waste, such as carbon dioxide. COPD makes breathing more difficult with time. Although lung damage cannot be reversed, medication and lifestyle modifications can help you manage this condition.
Symptoms of COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, describes a group of lung conditions that make it difficult to empty air out of the lungs because the airways have become narrowed. It is caused over a period of time due to exposure to irritants that damage your lungs and airways. As COPD progresses gradually, it becomes increasingly difficult to breathe over time. The two most common conditions of COPD are chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The most common symptoms include:
- Persistent cough with mucus.
- Difficulty taking a deep breath.
- Shortness of breath with mild exercise.
- Becoming tired easily.
- Wheezing.
If you experience any of these symptoms, see a specialist for further diagnosis and treatment. Do not delay seeking medical care or dismiss the symptoms as regular cough. COPD is a chronic lung disease that has no cure. The damage done to your lungs is irreversible but you can slow the disease’s progression by administering medications that improve quality of life and alleviate symptoms.
Risk factors of COPD
Long-term exposure to allergens and toxins in the air can lead to COPD. Smoking is the biggest risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The majority of COPD cases in western countries are caused by tobacco use, but most COPD cases in the developing world, including India, are caused by exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution, notably burning biomass, such as wood and cow dung. Here are the most common risk factors of this disease:
- Smoking tobacco.
- Breathing second-hand smoke.
- Long-term exposure to air pollution.
- Workplace exposure to chemicals, fumes and dust.
- A genetic condition called Alpha-1 deficiency.
- A history of childhood respiratory infection.
Living with COPD
This condition has no permanent cure. However, there are certain things you can do to maintain your health and alleviate your symptoms. COPD patients must make these positive lifestyle changes to help improve their quality of life:
- Quit smoking.
- Avoid smoke, fumes, dust, and air pollution as much as you can.
- Practice breathing exercises.
- Stay active.
- Take your medications as prescribed.
- Get regular checkups.
- Eat a healthy diet.
COPD treatment at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
The Department of Pulmonary Medicine at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital provides the full spectrum of care and treatment for respiratory diseases like COPD. Our world-class multidisciplinary team of doctors, pulmonologists, nurses, lab technicians, and support staff provides cutting-edge treatment and exemplary care in a comforting ambience full of personalized attention. We are equipped with an Ultra Modern Pulmonary Function Lab for Spirometry, Lung Volumes, Diffusion Capacity, 6-minute walk test, and oxygen saturation. The right facilities and the right experts can help you breathe easier. We also have an advanced physical rehabilitation therapy department for assistance with chest physiotherapy and other rehabilitation therapy. Please find below our website link for further information: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/pulmonarymedicine/copd.html