Pulmonary doctors can help explain your situation if you have recently been diagnosed with COPD. However, as you prepare for your appointment, it is good to educate yourself on exactly what the condition is, common treatment options, and general prognosis. This can not only put your mind at ease, but will also make you a better informed patient during your discussion with the medical professionals on your medical team. While it is a serious condition, many people live long and productive lives with COPD with proper management.
COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is a term to explain when a patient has chronic emphysema and bronchitis. Essentially, the airways in your lungs become swollen and/or covered in mucus, making it difficult to inhale or exhale. It causes the characteristic rattly breathing and coughing. Internally, the lungs have a system of many very small balloon-like sacs that fill with air and release it as you breathe. With COPD, these sacs no longer work properly, making it harder to breathe.
Pulmonary doctors can help explain why you have COPD. In most cases, it is caused by smoking, extreme exposure to cigarette smoke, or other airborne irritants, such as pollution, dust, and chemicals. If you have been diagnosed, it is important to stop smoking and reduce your exposure to other irritants. It might be helpful to wear a facemask if you can’t avoid dusty or polluted conditions.
Once diagnosed, pulmonary doctors will help you determine which treatment options are best for you. There is no cure, but many medications and treatments can help reduce the flair-ups and improve your quality of life. It is also important to keep in good communication with your doctor. They can make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed. It is especially important to seek immediate medical attention if you believe you have allergies, a cold, virus, bacterial infection or other condition that could cause congestion and more stress and inflammation for your lungs.
With a good team of pulmonary doctors and medical professionals, attention to exercise and nutrition, and avoidance of lung irritants, it is possible to have a good life after diagnosis.
Remember to check with your doctor before starting any treatment or medical remedy.
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