COPD is caused by an unusual inflammatory response in the lungs triggered by prolonged exposure to airborne particles or gases, or tobacco smoking. Symptoms include bronchitis and emphysema, and there is no cure, only treatments to minimize discomfort. Avoiding triggers, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking medication as prescribed can help manage the condition.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a condition in which the air passages in the lungs are narrowed and unable to process airflow efficiently. The main cause for developing COPD has to do with something triggering an unusual inflammatory response in the lungs. These elements may be due to prolonged exposure to airborne particles or gases present in places frequented by the individual, such as a workplace. COPD can also have its roots in tobacco smoking, which is among the most common causes of the condition.
In all cases, the element or cause of the condition triggers one or more abnormal responses from part of the lungs. When the triggered response includes the development of mucus or sputum that is passed out regularly, there’s a good chance the reaction is centered on the larger airways in the lungs. The condition is likely to lead to the development of bronchitis first and then COPD.
COPD can manifest itself as an infection in the actual lung tissue that causes the tissue to deteriorate. When this happens, the inflammation is concentrated in the alveoli and usually begins as emphysema. With continued exposure to the trigger, COPD will develop.
A diagnosis of COPD usually occurs when symptoms associated with bronchitis or emphysema suddenly get worse. Doctors will perform a series of tests designed to test the capacity and efficiency of your lungs. Once the severity of the condition is determined, a treatment regimen can be put together that will help slow the development of COPD and perhaps provide some relief at the same time. However, it is important to remember that there is no real cure for COPD, only treatments to minimize discomfort and enable the sufferer to enjoy a higher quality of life.
Once the diagnosis of COPD is confirmed, one of the first steps in addressing the condition is to eliminate any potential triggers that could be causing the disease to worsen at a faster rate. For example, avoiding tobacco use and refraining from inhaling secondhand smoke will remove a possible trigger. Likewise, it may be prudent to seek out a different line of work if your work environment contains constant exposure to airborne particles such as coal dust.
Another way to deal with COPD is to maintain a healthy weight. This means avoiding gaining too much weight or losing more pounds than your doctor thinks is healthy. By keeping the body weight within acceptable ranges, there is less stress on the lungs and the individual is much less likely to suffer a sudden attack.
There are a number of medications that can be prescribed to ease the suffering caused by COPD. Doctors match the current state of the condition with an appropriate drug for that stage of development. Taking your medication as recommended by your doctor is an important part of living with COPD and its symptoms.
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