Everything You Need to know About COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It encompasses several conditions that cause breathing-related problems. Smoking plays a critical role in the development of this condition. 

COPD Signs and Symptoms

To know if you might have COPD, it is important to learn the different signs and symptoms of this disease. Symptoms usually appear when there is already significant damage to the lungs

• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath, especially during physical exertion
• Chronic cough with possible white, clear, greenish, or yellowish mucus (sputum)
• Tightness in the chest
• Lethargy
• Chronic, constant respiratory infections
• Swelling of the feet, ankles, or legs
• Unintentional weight loss

COPD Risk Factors

The risk factors for developing COPD² are as follows: 

• Cigarette smoking. Long-term tobacco exposure is still the leading risk factor for COPD. Those who inhale great amounts of secondhand smoke may also be at risk. 
• Asthma. Though not officially classified as a type of COPD, asthma is a risk factor to developing COPD in the future, especially if it’s coupled with cigarette smoking. 
• Genetics. A rare genetic disorder called alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency can cause COPD. Other genetic factors may also play a role. 
• Exposure to certain chemicals, fumes, and dust. Long-term occupational or domestic exposure to certain fumes and vapors, such as chemicals and burning fuel may increase a person’s likelihood of developing COPD. 

COPD: Bronchitis vs. Emphysema

There are various COPD types, but the two most common are bronchitis and emphysema. While some doctors agree that asthma should be included in COPD classification, others do not.¹

Now, let’s compare bronchitis vs. emphysema. 

Chronic bronchitis is the result of prolonged inflammation of the bronchi, which are the breathing passages of the lungs. This leads to excess mucus production along with other symptoms, such as breathing problems, cough, and frequent respiratory infections.¹

Emphysema is also a chronic condition of the lungs, but it affects the alveoli or the lungs’ air sacs. In emphysema, the alveoli either become narrowed, stretched, or destroyed. These changes can impair lung function and lead to breathlessness along with “holes” in lung tissue, which are what cause emphysema. This condition cannot be reversed.¹
How do you tell the difference between bronchitis vs. emphysema?³ To diagnose and differentiate the two common types of COPD, doctors can conduct a variety of pulmonary function tests. These tests can also detect whether a person has a different type of lung condition entirely. Examples include: spirometry, chest X-ray, arterial blood gases, and peak flow monitoring.
Aside from these, doctors can carry out a thorough physical examination and take a detailed medical history. For instance, a wet cough that persists for at least 3 months may be a sign of chronic bronchitis. If the lungs appear stretched in certain places, then this may signal emphysema. 
Now how about COPD vs. Asthma? Asthma causes a similar inflammation and tightening of airway muscles. There is also increased mucus production, which can cause mucus plugs. Though not officially classified as COPD, it may also be a long-term risk factor, as previously mentioned. 

Living with COPD

Managing COPD means avoiding COPD complications by adhering to the proper COPD treatment.

Those living with COPD should be extra careful to avoid infections.⁴ They become prone to this because their lungs cannot effectively clean out dust, and bacteria. This can cause further damage to the lungs. 

Watch out for the following:

• increased difficulty breathing
• mucus build-up
• Fever
• sore throat
• nasal congestion
• fatigue

To avoid infection, remember:

• Frequent and thorough hand washing with soap and warm water is still the best way to avoid infections, especially after coughing or sneezing or before preparing food or taking medications. 
• Limit visitors, especially if they are showing signs of respiratory infection. Avoiding crowds can also help protect you against infection. 
• Keep your environment dust- and pollution-free.
• Make sure your breathing equipment like your inhaler or nebulizer is kept clean.
• Maintaining a balanced diet is also a good way to breathe easier. Consult your doctor about increasing fats and decreasing carbohydrates, along with the best meal plan for you. As with any health condition, good nutrition is key. 

Make sure to call your doctor if you are showing any signs of infection. 
COPD manifests and progresses differently for each person. Quitting smoking is still the best way to slow down this condition. Other ways include:

• Taking prescribed medications
• Getting an annual flu shot
• Maintaining a healthy weight 
• Avoiding air pollution
• Working with your doctor on a pulmonary rehabilitation program

Though the lung damage caused by COPD is irreversible, it is not untreatable. Managing symptoms, avoiding infection, and working closely with your doctor can help you control the disease and breathe better with COPD.