COPD/
Emphysema
An estimated 16 million adults have COPD in the United States. The American Lung Association (ALA) thinks there may be as many as 24 million American adults living with COPD. Rates of COPD are highest in the Southeast and Midwest states.
What is COPD?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease defined by persistently poor airflow as a result of the breakdown of lung tissue (known as emphysema) and dysfunction of the small airways.
Symptoms
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activities
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- A chronic cough that may produce mucus (sputum) that may be clear, white, yellow or greenish
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Lack of energy
- Unintended weight loss (in later stages)
- Swelling in ankles, feet or legs
Risk factors
- Exposure to tobacco smoke
- People with asthma
- Occupational exposure to dust and chemicals
- Exposure to fumes from burning fuel
- Genetics
Preventive Measures
COPD has clear reasons and symptoms, which is why even the prevention is pretty straight forward. As the majority of the cases are related to smoking, the best preventive measure is to quit smoking. While this may sound difficult to many, we at All Care ensure to provide you a holistic treatment of COPD which includes both medical care coupled with wellness. This will help you in accepting changes in your lifestyle with a positive mindset and an effective mindset.
Some other preventive measures include:
- Get an annual flu vaccination and regular vaccination against pneumococcal pneumonia to reduce your risk of or prevent some infections.
- Talk to our wellness experts, if you feel sad or helpless or think that you may be experiencing depression.
- If your work profile calls for the usage of Lung irritants, then talk to your supervisor about the best ways to protect yourself, such as using respiratory protective equipment.
