COPD and related issues

What is COPD?

COPD is a chronic (long-term), progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe.
It includes two main conditions:

Chronic bronchitis – long-term inflammation of the airways, causing cough with mucus.

Emphysema – destruction of the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs, reducing oxygen exchange.

🔍 Causes

Smoking (most common cause)

Long-term exposure to air pollution, chemical fumes, or dust

Genetic factors (like α₁-antitrypsin deficiency)

Frequent lung infections in childhood

⚠️ Symptoms

Persistent cough (often with sputum)

Shortness of breath (especially on exertion)

Wheezing

Chest tightness

Fatigue

Frequent respiratory infections

In later stages: weight loss, cyanosis (bluish lips/nails), and swelling in ankles

🧬 Pathophysiology (in simple terms)

Airway inflammation → narrowing of bronchi

Damage to alveoli → less oxygen exchange

Air gets trapped in lungs → hyperinflation

Reduced lung elasticity → breathing difficulty

🧪 Diagnosis

Spirometry (PFT): FEV₁/FVC ratio < 0.70 confirms airflow obstruction

Chest X-ray / CT scan: shows hyperinflated lungs

Arterial blood gas: to check oxygen & carbon dioxide levels

Alpha-1 antitrypsin test: for genetic form

💊 Treatment & Management

There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed:

1. Medications

Bronchodilators: e.g., salbutamol, tiotropium

Inhaled corticosteroids: reduce inflammation

Combination inhalers

Antibiotics: during infections

Oral steroids: for acute flare-ups

2. Oxygen therapy

For patients with low oxygen levels.

3. Pulmonary rehabilitation

Breathing exercises, nutrition advice, and fitness training.

4. Lifestyle changes

Stop smoking (most important!)

Avoid pollutants

Regular vaccinations (flu, pneumonia)

Balanced diet and hydration

5. Surgical options (severe cases)

Lung volume reduction surgery

Lung transplant

🔄 Complications / Related Issues

Respiratory infections (frequent bronchitis, pneumonia)

Pulmonary hypertension

Right heart failure (cor pulmonale)

Osteoporosis (from steroids or inactivity)

Anxiety & depression (due to chronic illness)

Acute exacerbations – sudden worsening of symptoms

❤️‍🩹 Prevention

Don’t smoke (or quit if you do)

Avoid passive smoke & polluted environments

Regular exercise

Early treatment of chest infections

Tags: by | October 30, 2025, 1:58 pm | 0 Comments

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