Signs And Symptoms Of COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung condition that causes long-term breathing difficulties. It includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Most patients have both of these illnesses. In the United States, there are roughly sixteen million individuals with this condition. Smoking is the main cause. Doctors can use chest x-rays, CT scans, lung function tests, and arterial blood gas tests to diagnose this condition.

Many patients will take their medication through prescription inhalers for COPD. Every patient wants the best inhaler for COPD, though this may vary. Bronchodilators, inhaled steroids, and theophylline are some options. There are also specific medications for emphysema patients available. Patients may also look at herbal remedies for COPD. However, all treatment begins with identifying the symptoms and reaching a diagnosis.

Shortness Of Breath

Medically known as dyspnea, shortness of breath is the feeling of not getting enough air into the lungs. It can feel as though the patient is suffocating, and it may be very frightening. For patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, shortness of breath is especially likely during exercise. If shortness of breath occurs with chest pain, nausea, or fainting, the patient should receive emergency medical care.

Doctors evaluate dyspnea by listening to the patient's lung sounds with a stethoscope. They may also perform pulse oximetry and lung function tests. Chest x-rays, CT scans, and blood tests might be recommended. Some patients will need to have an electrocardiogram. Shortness of breath may be treated with medications and supplemental oxygen. However, the chosen treatment will depend on the severity of the patient's symptoms. Hospital treatment could be necessary for patients with severe shortness of breath.

Learn more about the symptoms associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease now.