Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a disease that makes it difficult to move air in and out of your lungs. The airways of the lung become inflamed and become obstructed or blocked. Taking a breath becomes difficult.
COPD is an umbrella term for two respiratory diseases.
1. Chronic Bronchitis
2. Emphysema
COPD progresses slowly and worsens over time. Early detection and a well-rounded treatment plan that addresses medication regimen, proper use of medications can reduce the progression significantly.
COPD is also called the silent disease because symptoms usually progress slowly. At first, you may only notice shortness of breath only during exercise. A morning cough may develop, these symptoms at first might not seem important but can progress to the point where activities of daily living can become very difficult.
COPD cannot be cured but can be controlled. The progression and severity of symptoms can be controlled through:
- Appropriate activity
- Medication
- Prevention of infection
- Smoking cessation.
