Prevention is always better than cure. It’s wise to take precautions and keep chronic diseases away. Respiratory diseases can be life-threatening, but the good news is they are preventive. Therefore, it’s better to spend time and effort to deal with respiratory problems rather than wait until it gets worse. Respiratory diseases are of different kinds, and amongst them, COPD is the second-highest lethal lung disease in India. It affects the respiratory system and damages the lungs (vital organs of the body).
Generally, people ignore the symptoms of COPD until they diagnose it. The skyrocketing inflation and treatment costs of this chronic disease can derail the life and finances.
Experts say that most of the cases of COPD are preventable by precautions, medication, management, and health insurance. Here we have a COPD comprehensive guide for your reference so that you can breathe healthily.
What is COPD?
COPD is a group of progressive chronic inflammatory lung diseases that hinders the airflow from the lungs and makes it difficult to breathe. Its diagnosis involves imaging tests, blood tests, and lung function tests. The disease affects millions of people around the world. It’s not completely curable, but the right treatment and management lower the chances of complications.
What Are the Types of COPD?
It is an umbrella term used for two or more conditions. The two main diseases are:
Emphysema:
It gradually destroys air sacs in the lungs that chock the outward airflow. The air sacs (alveoli) in emphysema lose their shapes and become saggy. As a result, the amount of oxygen in the lungs is reduced.
Chronic Bronchitis:
It affects cilia (hair-like fibres) and narrowing the bronchial tubes, which results in more mucus. It causes inflammation, more cough, and thick mucus that make breathing difficult.
What Are the Symptoms of COPD?
It develops slowly over the age and year. People have several symptoms of COPD. But, the most common symptoms are as follows:
- Shortness of Breath
- Wheezing
- Chest Tightness
- Chronic Cough
- Lack of Energy
- Frequent Cold
- Swollen Feet and Legs
- Blue Lips or Fingernails
- Fatigue
- Losing Sudden Weight
What Are the Causes of COPD?
Various reasons cause COPD. Some of the most common causes are listed below:
- Smoking
- Second-hand Smoke
- Air Pollution
- Indoor Pollution (Solid Fuel, Cooking Smoke, and Heating Gas)
- Chemicals Vapours and Fumes
- Dust
- Viruses
- Bacteria
- Genetic
- Asthma
What Are the Effects of COPD?
Patients diagnosed with COPD have below effects:
- Respiratory Infection
- Heart Problems
- Lung Cancer
- High Blood Pressure
- Depression
- Difficulty in Walking and Climbing Stairs
- Fatigue
- Do not feel to be Socialize
- Continuous Coughing
What Are the Treatments of COPD?
COPD is a non-curable disease, but timely treatment can improve the quality of life and reduces the risk of death. Below are the treatments available for COPD:
- Nicotine Replacement Therapy for quitting smoking
- Medication with doctor’s consultation
- Use of Inhalers
- Nasal Sprays
- Nebulizer
- Steam
- Yoga Postures
What Is the Prevention of COPD?
Prevention is always helpful to keep away from this chronic disease. Below are some preventative measures to maintain the good health of your lungs.
- Quit smoking and chewing tobacco
- Wash your hands before and after your meals
- Cover your mouth and nose at the time of coughing and sneezing
- Turn on the exhaust fan at the time of cooking
- Minimize the usage of air fresheners, hair sprays, and deodorants
- Wear a breathing mask
- Opt for Health insurance plans
- Put a breathing mask whenever you are out of your home
- Do some jiffy exercises to improve the oxygen and blood circulation in your lungs
- Take the stairs whenever possible
- Use air purifiers
- Consult with a doctor and take the medicine on time
- Opt for a comprehensive health insurance plan
Suggestion
So, if you find the symptoms of COPD, then do not panic. Consult with your doctor and start your treatment as soon as possible. As respiratory diseases are spreading rapidly and treatment costs are touching the sky, the right health insurance plan is great support.
With maximum coverage and cashless hospitalization at our network hospitals get the best possible medical treatment and breathe worry-free.
Disclaimer: The above information is only for reference purposes. Underwriting of claims for COPD is subject to policy terms and conditions.
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