What Are the Treatments for Pulmonary Diseases?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to a group of pulmonary lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Both lung diseases are caused by obstruction of air flow, making it difficult to breathe. Damage is not reversible, so treatment will focus on preventing further damage and treating symptoms.
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Symptoms
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Symptoms are not normally experienced until lung damage has occurred. Smokers may experience a cough that worsens over the years. The cough becomes chronic and is worse in the morning. Yellow sputum may be produced from the cough, along with frequent respiratory infections. Patients with emphysema experience shortness of breath, wheezing and a tight feeling in the chest. Some people may also experience headaches, fatigue and a swelling of the feet, ankles and legs.
Medications
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Bronchodilators are medical devices containing medications such as Antrovent that are inhaled and work to relax the muscles surrounding your airways, easing shortness of breath and relieving coughs. You may need to use the bronchodilator only when performing activities that require exertion, or you may need to use the device every day, depending on the severity of your disease. Inhaled steroid treatment reduces inflammation in the airways, making breathing easier. Prolonged steroid use has severe side effects, such as weakening bones, a risk of acquiring diabetes and cataracts, and increasing blood pressure. Antibiotics may be prescribed for respiratory infections caused by bacteria.
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Oxygen Therapy
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Supplemental oxygen therapy may be recommended when not enough oxygen is being carried in your blood. Several devices are used for oxygen therapy, such as portable units you can take with you when leaving home. You may only need oxygen therapy to perform certain activities or at night when sleeping. Others with severe pulmonary diseases may need oxygen throughout the day. Oxygen can improve mental clarity, heart function and quality of life. Some hospitals offer lung rehabilitation that educates you on how to breathe properly and how to perform certain exercises to help with lung capacity.
Surgery
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Severe emphysema may be helped with certain surgeries. In a lung volume reduction surgery, small pieces of damaged lung are removed, allowing for more space in the chest cavity so the lung can function more effectively. Lung transplant surgery may be an option, but according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, the wait list is long and complications from infection and rejection of the donated lung can result in death.
Lifestyle Changes
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Avoid smoke-filled environments as secondhand smoke can damage lungs. If you smoke, quit. Drink plenty of fluids and use a humidifier to help control coughing. Talk with a respiratory therapist about controlled breathing and relaxation techniques. Perform low-impact exercises as these can strengthen respiratory muscles and build up endurance. Stay inside when smog or pollution alerts are issued. See your doctor regularly so he can monitor your lung function.
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