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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Smoking is the leading cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This form of lung disease is often referred to as either COPD or emphysema. COPD is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and health related complications from smoking are responsible for more work absences than any other problem. Some other causes of COPD include cystic fibrosis, alpha-antitrypsinase enzyme deficiency (inherited condition), and chronic exposure to some chemicals/irritants (asbestos, silica, and coal dust). Patients with a long smoking history (more than 10 years) will develop inflammation and destruction of the bronchioles (smaller airways) in the lungs, which result in an increased obstruction to air flow and poor oxygenation of the bloodstream. With continued smoking, destruction progresses, breathing becomes progressively more difficult, and symptoms akin to asthma (wheezing) will develop.
COPD patients also have increased risk of pulmonary infection (pneumonia and bronchitis) due to compromised immune system function in the upper respiratory tree. Smokers have a 25 fold increased risk of lung cancer, and they are also at high risk for heart disease and stroke through the acceleration of atherosclerosis in the blood vessels. Common symptoms include: chronic cough (producing mucus), shortness of breath upon exertion (increasing over the years of smoking), and wheezing. These symptoms often present insidiously (rather than suddenly). Fever can be present if an infection (bronchitis) is present. Evaluation will include pulmonary function tests, to determine the severity of disease and also to assess the patient's response to medications. Chest x-ray may show changes consistent with emphysema (lung "disappearing" on the x-ray), scarring, or tumor.
TREATMENT
1. ENCOURAGEMENT TO STOP SMOKING
2. BRONCHODILATOR MEDICATIONS
3. ANTIBIOTICS (in cases of bronchitis infection)
4. HOME OXYGEN THERAPY (for cases of severe disease, some patients must use a portable oxygen machine).
5. Steroid medications (Prednisone) for severe cases to reduce inflammation in bronchial tissue.
6. Pulmonary disease diet is recommended.For additional information on the health risks of smoking.
Hope this article will provide you information about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
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