Chapter-12
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Smoking is hateful to the nose, harmful to the brain, and dangerous to the lungs.
-King James I
Whenever I think to quit smoking, I need a cigarette to think.
-Le Funny.net
More than 90% of COPD deaths occur in low – and middle – income countries. The main cause of COPD is tobacco smoke, including second hand smoke and air pollution. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a term that refers to two common lung disorders: chronic bronchitis and emphysema (damage to the air sacs of the lungs). COPD is an under-diagnosed, life-threatening lung disease that interferes with normal breathing. It is not reversible. It is a major cause of disability and death.
Risk Factors
- Tobacco smoke, including expose to second hand smoke.
- Indoor air pollution – cooking and heating.
- Outdoor air – pollution.
- Occupational dusts and chemicals (vapors, fumes).
- Frequent lower respiratory infections during childhood.
Symptoms
- Breathlessness (or a need for air).
- Abnormal sputum.
- Chronic cough.
- Difficulty in daily activities, such as walking up a short flight of stairs.
- Gradual worsening of breathlessness.
Diagnosis
COPD is confirmed by a diagnostic test called “spirometry” that measures how much air a person can inhale and exhale, and how fast air can move into and out. Because COPD develops slowly, it is frequently diagnosed in people aged 40 or older.
Prevention
Quit Smoking
- Keep smoke, fumes out of your house
- Keep your windows closed and stay indoors when air pollution or dust level outside are high
- Use face mask when needed
- Get yearly flu shot and pneumonia vaccination
- Walk or exercise regularly
- Eat a balanced diet
- Do not be overweight
COPD is not curable. It is essential to stop smoking to prevent the progression of the disease. Various forms of treatments can help to increase the quality of life, but it is not reversible. If you are working in job with constant exposure to dust or chemicals always use a face mask. Get frequent lung function tests done for early diagnosis and treatment. Change job if you can if your breathing test continues to get worse.
Saheb Sahu, M.D., F.A.A.P., MPH.