Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a term used to refer to a number of lung conditions. When the lungs become inflamed or affected with various infections, the patient faces difficulty in breathing. It can happen to people of any age. Mostly common in the elderly, this condition can be caused by a number of reasons; most prominent being the exposure to harmful substances like cigarette smoke or chemical fumes. As COPD is an umbrella term, emphysema and bronchitis are the most common illnesses that fall under this category.
Emphysema
When the airways become narrow due to external blackages, the patient feels difficulty in breathing. It also accompanies asthma and tuberculosis in the worst cases. When the bronchi is continuously swollen and inflamed, it results in the bursting of air sacs which makes it difficult for the oxygen to pass through. This condition is quite common in the elderly.
Bronchitis
There are tubes that exist in the lungs. When the tubes are blocked with mucus, the patient coughs up discolored mucus to throw out the blockage. Chronic bronchitis mostly occurs in elderly patients due to the aging of lungs. It may last for a few months or even years. It may happen due to respiratory infection or exposure to harmful chemicals and substances.
Causes of COPD
Most common cause of COPD is smoking. Cigarette smoke goes inside the lungs resulting in inflammation. If an elderly patient has an occupation of working in a harmful environment full of chemical fumes and smoke then COPD is most likely to develop over the years. The best way to prevent COPD is to stop smoking. Non-smokers may also develop COPD due to continuous exposure to harmful substances.
Symptoms
Some common symptoms of COPD include:
- Frequent breathlessness
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Pain in the ribs due to continuous coughing
All these symptoms may get adverse if this condition is not treated on time.
Prevention
Elderly patients who have COPD symptoms must avoid travelling for long flights as an emergency situation may arise suddenly. If it is important to travel then a caretaker must go with the elderly with all the necessary medications and inhalers to treat the sudden symptoms on time.
Treatment
Even though this condition is not curable, it can be managed well by treating the symptoms beforehand. There are a number of inhalers and medications available in the market which help to sooth the inflamed lungs. Anoro inhaler is one of the best and highly recommended inhalers prescribed by the doctors. After a proper diagnosis, you can get free Anoro inhaler coupon from a trusted online pharmacy like PricePro pharmacy that specializes in selling discounted drugs and medications.
Pulmonary rehabilitation programmes
Another healthy option to treat the symptoms of COPD is to enroll yourself in a pulmonary rehabilitation program. This program includes exercise to improve the exchange of oxygen through the lungs. Breathing exercises help to train the lungs for the passing of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Healthy eating habits must be adopted along with medications and exercise to better manage this condition.
2018 ·
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