Breathing Easier: Understanding and Managing COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a serious lung condition that affects millions of Americans. COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, can’t be cured, but it can be managed with the right care and lifestyle choices. Each November, COPD Awareness Month serves to build awareness about the disease and encourage early diagnoses.
What Is COPD?
COPD is a progressive disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It’s most commonly caused by smoking, but long-term exposure to air pollution, chemical fumes, and workplace dust can also contribute. Everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or getting dressed can become exhausting for those living with COPD.
In the U.S., more than 16 million people have been diagnosed with COPD, and many more may have it without knowing.
Symptoms often develop slowly and include:
- Chest tightness
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
Why Awareness Matters
COPD Awareness Month is about education, early detection, and support. The earlier COPD is diagnosed, the better the chances of slowing its progression and improving quality of life.
Our team at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center is dedicated to helping patients manage COPD through:
- Medications such as inhalers and steroids to reduce inflammation and open airways
- Oxygen therapy to support breathing
- Pulmonary rehabilitation to strengthen lungs and improve stamina
We also emphasize preventive care, encouraging patients to quit smoking, stay active, eat well, and keep up with vaccinations to avoid respiratory infections.
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing symptoms like chronic coughing or shortness of breath, it’s important to talk to your primary care provider or a pulmonologist. COPD can lead to serious complications, including heart problems, lung infections, and even lung cancer if left untreated.
If you don’t currently have a primary care provider, visit SJRMC.org/services/primary-care to find one near you. And if you’re healthy today, the best step you can take to prevent COPD is simple: don’t smoke or quit if you do.
Your lungs work hard for you every day. Let’s work together to keep them healthy.