Physician offers tips for living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a leading cause of disability and death in the U.S., according to the American Lung Association.

More than 12.5 million people in the U.S.



have a diagnosis of COPD, but millions more may have the disease without knowing it. COPD is a chronic inflammatory lung disease most often caused by long-term smoking, especially cigarettes. Another cause of COPD is breathing in toxic fumes or gases.

In rare cases, the cause is a genetic problem. People with COPD are at increased risk of developing respiratory infections, heart disease , lung cancer , pulmonary hypertension and depression. Also, people with chronic lung disease like COPD may be at greater risk of severe illness and complications from COVID-19.

Factors that can increase the risk of COPD include exposure to tobacco smoke , including secondhand smoke ; asthma; occupational exposure to dust and chemicals; exposure to fumes from burning fuel; infections; and genetics. Symptoms of COPD often don't appear until significant lung damage has occurred, and they usually worsen over time, particularly if cigarette smoke exposure continues. Signs and symptoms of COPD can include: Most cases of COPD in the U.

S. are directly related to long-term cigarette smoking. Stopping smoking can prevent COPD from worsening and reducing your ability to breathe.

Many people with COPD have mild forms of the disease and need little treatment other than quitting smoking. With advanced stages of the disease, effective treatment is available that can control symptoms, slow progression, reduce your risk of complications and exacerbations, and improve your ability to lead an active life. Treatment for COPD can include medications, such as inhalers; oxygen; pulmonary rehabilitation; in-home noninvasive ventilation therapy; managing flare-ups, also called exacerbations; endobronchial valves; and surgery.

Living with COPD can be a challenge, especially as it becomes harder to catch your breath. You may have to give up some activities you previously enjoyed. Your family and friends also may have difficulty adjusting to some of the changes.

These strategies can help people with COPD feel better and slow the damage to their lungs: 2024 Tribune Content Agency, LLC..