What is COPD?
COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. In COPD, the airways and air sacs in the lungs are damaged, so less air flows in and out. Smoking is the most common cause, but long-term exposure to dust, fumes or other lung irritants can also play a part.
Common symptoms include shortness of breath, a cough that does not go away, coughing up mucus, wheezing and chest tightness. COPD cannot be cured, but treatment can ease symptoms and help you stay active.
COPD usually gets worse slowly over many years, and early symptoms are easy to mistake for getting older or being out of shape. If you have a cough that will not go away or get short of breath doing things that used to be easy, ask your doctor about a simple breathing test.
How is COPD treated?
Treatment depends on how much COPD affects your breathing and daily life. Dr. Le works with you on a plan that may include:
- Inhaled medicines, plus help making sure you use your inhaler the right way
- Support to quit smoking, which is the most important step for many people
- Vaccines that lower the risk of lung infections, such as flu and pneumonia vaccines
- A written action plan for flare-ups, so you know what to do when symptoms get worse
- A referral to pulmonary rehabilitation, a program of exercise and breathing training
When is oxygen therapy needed?
Some people with COPD have low levels of oxygen in their blood. Oxygen therapy gives you extra oxygen, usually through a small tube in the nose, and may help you feel less short of breath and do more. Dr. Le checks your oxygen level and, if you need oxygen, helps set it up and adjusts it at follow-up visits here in Bluefield.
Oxygen is a medicine, so use it only as prescribed. Keep it away from open flames, and never smoke while using oxygen.
How can I live well with COPD?
Everyday habits can help you breathe easier and lower your chance of flare-ups:
- Stay away from smoke, dust and strong fumes whenever you can
- Stay as active as you are able, since regular movement keeps muscles strong
- Wash your hands often and stay up to date on vaccines to avoid lung infections
- Practice breathing methods such as pursed-lip breathing when you feel short of breath
- Eat healthy meals and keep all your follow-up visits
What to expect at your visit
- We talk about your breathing, cough and how COPD affects your daily activities.
- Dr. Le listens to your lungs, checks your oxygen level and reviews your inhaler technique.
- He may order breathing tests or a chest X-ray if they will help guide your care.
- You leave with an updated treatment plan and a flare-up action plan.
Common questions about copd care
Can COPD get better with treatment?
COPD cannot be cured, and lung damage usually cannot be reversed. But treatment can ease symptoms, lower the chance of flare-ups and help you stay active. Quitting smoking, using inhalers correctly and joining pulmonary rehabilitation are some of the most helpful steps.
What is a COPD flare-up?
A flare-up, also called an exacerbation, is when COPD symptoms suddenly get worse than usual. You may feel more short of breath, cough more, or notice mucus that changes color. Flare-ups are often caused by infections. Having a written action plan helps you know when to call your doctor.
How do I know if I need oxygen?
Your doctor checks the oxygen level in your blood, often with a small clip on your finger called a pulse oximeter, and sometimes during walking or sleep. If your oxygen level stays low, oxygen therapy may be recommended. Feeling short of breath alone does not always mean you need oxygen.
Learn more from trusted sources
This page is general health information, not medical advice for your situation. Talk with Dr. Le about your own care.