Breathe Easier: 10 Amazing Activities Proven to Improve COPD Symptoms

6. Complications

If left untreated, COPD may lead to an increased risk for respiratory infections, such as the common cold, flu, and pneumonia. It can also cause heart problems by increasing the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Quitting smoking has been shown to reduce this risk. COPD may also cause lung cancer and pulmonary hypertension, which is a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the arteries responsible for bringing blood to the lungs. Difficulty breathing can result in depression as the person affected may no longer be able to do the things they enjoy.

5. Treatment

Certain medications are available to treat COPD. Bronchodilators usually come in inhaler form and help relax the muscles around the airways to relieve shortness of breath and coughing. Depending on the severity of the disease, inhalers may be needed before performing daily tasks, or they can be used on an as-needed basis. Inhaled corticosteroid medications and oral steroids are available to reduce airway inflammation and reduce exacerbations. Phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors are designed to treat chronic bronchitis, and theophylline is an inexpensive drug that may help improve breathing.