Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of progressive lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and non-reversible asthma. COPD is quite common and currently incurable disease which is mainly characterized by increasing breathlessness, daily cough, and mucus production. However, with the right diagnosis and proper management of the disease, you can help yourself to breath better. In fact, you can live for many years and enjoy your life. But for this, it is important for you to consult with the best pulmonologist in town.
What Are The Symptoms Of COPD?
Early symptoms of COPD include occasional shortness of breath, especially after running or exercise. In its early stages, you may also have to clear your throat and you may also suffer from a mild but a recurrent cough. However, its symptoms can get progressively worse and severe. As the lungs become more damage, you experience symptoms like:
- Noisy breathing
- Chest tightness
- Fatigue
- Swelling in ankles, feet or legs
- A chronic cough (with or without mucus)
- Weight loss
- Lack of energy
- Respiratory infection
- Frequent colds and flu
- Wheezing
- Serious and increased trouble in breathing
What Causes COPD?
The single and the biggest cause of COPD is tobacco smoking. People who smoke or exposed to second-hand smoking are more likely to develop this disease. However, it can also occur in people who breathe in fumes from burning fuel for cooking and heating in poorly ventilated homes. According to several reports, most people with COPD are over 40 years of age and have at least some history of smoking. Chain smokers are at greater risk of OCPD.
Must Read: 5 Best Pulmonologists in Lahore
How Can It Be Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of this disease is based on its symptoms and physical examination. When you visit a pulmonologist, tell him about all of your symptoms and current health condition. During the physical examination, he will listen to your lungs as you breathe by using a stethoscope. Furthermore, he may ask you to get some tests done to determine if you have OCPD or some other condition.
Treatment:
As I mentioned above there is no cure for this disease but treatments can ease your symptoms and prevent further complications. These treatments may include:
- Medication
- Oxygen therapy
- Surgery
- Lung transplant
There are also some lifestyle changes which may further help you to alleviate the symptoms. To get relief it is very important for you to quit smoking. If you’re having trouble quitting smoking then get some supportive services, you may also visit, and consult with the best psychiatrist in Karachi.
