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Facts About COPD
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary (PULL-mun-ary) disease, is a progressive disease that makes it hard to breathe. COPD is actually a combination of combination of lung diseases, mainly emphysema and chronic asthmatic bronchitis. Smoking is the main cause of COPD, though long term exposure to chemicals, pollutants or other lung irritants may also be a factor.
It is important to treat COPD as complications from it are severe. Complications include frequent respiratory infections, high blood pressure, heart problems and depression.
If you think you may have COPD, see your health specialist. X-rays, CT scans, blood tests and an examination of the mucus in your lungs area all ways to determine if you suffer from COPD.
COPD is a progressive disease, meaning it worsens over time and there is no cure. However, treatments to manage the disease and reduce complications exist. The first proactive treatment against COPD is to stop smoking. It will inhibit the disease from worsening.
There are also various medications such as inhalers and steroids that will help you breathe easier. Also, oxygen therapy is necessary if you are not receiving enough oxygen into your blood. Surgery to remove dead lung tissue may be a last resort.
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