severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

An Overview of Severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a serious, long-term health condition which makes it difficult to breathe due to a mixture of narrowed airways and inflammation. Severe cases of COPD can significantly impair your ability to take part in everyday activities.

Symptoms of Severe COPD

The main symptom of severe COPD is breathlessness that gradually gets worse. Other common symptoms include:

• A persistent, productive cough
• Wheezing
• Frequent chest infections, such as bronchitis, and colds
• Tiredness and fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Lack of appetite
• Swelling in ankles, feet and legs

Causes of Severe COPD

The most common cause of severe COPD is smoking. Prolonged exposure to air pollution, substances such as dusts, fumes and chemicals, infection with lung irritants, and long-term exposure to passive smoking are other risk factors.

Diagnosing Severe COPD

Your doctor will diagnose severe COPD based on your symtoms, medical history, exposures to risk factors, physical examination, and a test known as spirometry which measures the amount and speed of the air you can inhale and exhale.

Treatment of Severe COPD

Treatment for severe COPD typically includes one or more medications, such as:

• Bronchodilators, which help open airways
• Inhaled Corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation
• Antibiotics, to treat infection
• Oxygen therapy
• Vaccines, to help prevent pneumonia

In addition to medication, other strategies for managing severe COPD include making lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, avoiding exposure to irritants and pollutants, taking part in physical activity when possible, eating a nutritious diet, and managing stress.