Health
Updated on November 3rd, 2023, 10:39 a.m
If you have COPD, inhaled cortisone can be used.
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The lung disease COPD is probably not known to many people, but it is one of the most common causes of death. What are the typical symptoms and what is the treatment for this incurable disease?
COPD: These four letters stand for the so-called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Depending on the stage of the disease, those affected by COPD become out of breath even with little exertion, generally find it difficult to breathe or cough a lot.
The reason for this is narrowed bronchi and/or damage to the lungs – both typical features of COPD. The disease often begins with chronic inflammation of the respiratory tract. This can cause scar tissue to form in the lungs, narrowing the airways.
What are COPD symptoms?
According to the Helmholtz Center Munich, the AHA symptoms named after the first letters are typical:
- sputum
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing
Complaints such as a feeling of tightness in the chest or a kind of humming noise when exhaling are also typical of the disease, which has several subgroups and is divided into four levels of severity.
What are risk factors for COPD?
Smoking is probably the biggest risk factor for developing COPD. However, there are also patients who have never smoked. Genetic predisposition or pollutants that you have been exposed to for a long time, for example at work, can also promote the disease.
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How is COPD treated?
Drug treatment for COPD involves expanding the bronchial tubes that are narrowed by the disease. One possible medication that can be used is cortisone, for example for inhalation. Regular treatment begins at an early stage in order to optimize patients’ resilience, says Michael Pfeifer, professor at the University Hospital Regensburg in a video about current COPD treatment approaches.
In addition to medication, there is also a treatment approach that is individually tailored to the needs of those affected and also deals with psychological well-being and how to deal with the disease in everyday life. Sports, breathing and oxygen therapies or surgical procedures can also be used. The aim is to counteract the progression of the disease. Pulmonary rehabilitation facilities often combine both approaches for COPD patients.
What is the life expectancy?
The symptoms can often be alleviated for a long time with medication. In many cases, COPD is only diagnosed at an older age. The progressive lung disease is currently not considered curable. According to the RKI COPD is one of the leading causes of death in Germany and around the world. The World Health Authority (WHO) speaks of this 3.23 million COPD deaths in 2019.
What can those affected by COPD pay attention to?
In addition to regular examinations and possible medication, lifestyle also plays a major role. Regular exercise (in consultation with the treating doctor), if the symptoms allow it, and a diet rich in vitamins and calcium (e.g. with dairy products) are also important.
It is important to avoid lung diseases, which is why experts often recommend corona and flu vaccinations. It is also strongly recommended that you stop smoking completely.
The information in this article does not replace personal advice and treatment from a doctor.
Sources used:
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