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what is COPD? | |
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causes & symptoms | |
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treating COPD | |
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help someone cope | |
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glossary | |
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expert Q & A | |
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The good news about COPD is that it is almost completely preventable, and when caught early on, symptoms can almost always be reduced. Quitting smoking can also reduce the risk for and symptoms of COPD. Knowing the causes and symptoms may encourage you to see a healthcare professional if you feel you or a loved one is at risk. And the earlier you catch COPD, the more treatment options you may have. causes In the vast majority of cases, smoking is the cause of COPD. It accounts for approximately 90 percent of all cases. A smoker is 10 times more likely than a non-smoker to die of COPD. Other risk factors include:
The primary symptom of COPD is shortness of breath accompanied by a cough or wheezing. Since COPD is oftentimes a combination of emphysema and chronic bronchitis associated with airflow obstruction, it’s important to understand the symptoms of each of these conditions. Symptoms of emphysema include cough, shortness of breath and a limited exercise tolerance. Symptoms of chronic bronchitis associated with airflow obstruction include chronic cough, increased mucus, frequent clearing of the throat, and shortness of breath. Remember, not all types of chronic bronchitis are associated with COPD. In the later stages of the disease, someone with COPD could suffer from severe shortness of breath, coughing and excessive amounts of sputum (mucus), wheezing, recurrent infections, swelled ankles, and a bluish skin tint. At advanced stages, people with COPD may need constant care and supplemental oxygen in order to breathe. The earlier a healthcare professional detects COPD, the easier it is to treat. So, if you wonder whether or not you are at risk, speak with your healthcare professional. Starting a treatment plan for COPD early is the best way to control its symptoms. |
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