Weight Loss From COPD
For reasons not completely understood, many people who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) also experience COPD-related weight loss. In fact, the American Lung Association reports that one in four persons with COPD are underweight. Losing weight can actually make COPD worse, so it is important that COPD sufferers monitor their body weight and muscle mass as part of their management of COPD.
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What Is COPD?
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COPD refers to several diseases that make it difficult to breath. These diseases include chronic bronchitis and emphysema, which is usually caused by smoking, and tend to get worse over time. Although there is no cure, there are numerous treatment options to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and make breathing easier.
Reasons Weight Loss in COPD
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The reasons for weight and muscle loss in people with COPD are still being researched, but a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that there may be several factors. Some of these can include the patient having to use more energy to do day-to-day activities because of restricted breathing, as well as eating less because of shortness of breath. In addition, those with COPD may have a loss of interest in food due to COPD-related depression. Moreover, because COPD may reduce oxygen levels in the blood, it can interrupt the digestive process and prevent the body from using food properly.
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How COPD Affects Eating
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COPD can impact the patient's ability to eat in several ways. COPD medication may reduce appetite and, because of restricted breathing, a person with COPD may have diminished energy, making it harder to prepare and eat meals. In addition, many sufferers may find it hard to hold their breath while chewing or swallowing. Moreover, it may be more difficult to breath after eating, since a full stomach may push up and interfere with muscles in the chest.
Why Losing Weight Is an Issue with COPD
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It is important for patients to avoid COPD-related weight loss for several reasons. As the body loses weight, it loses muscle mass, and muscles are what help the lungs to breathe. Diminished muscle mass will make breathing even more difficult, in addition to reducing the patient's energy level. This in turn may cause more weight loss, which will make it harder for the body to fight infection, including colds and lung infections. Avoiding this cycle is important when managing the long-term effects of COPD.
Avoiding COPD-Related Weight Loss
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To avoid weight loss from COPD, it is important to eat healthful foods high in protein and fat. Protein helps to build muscle, so foods such as lean meats and nuts should be an important part of a COPD diet. It may also be beneficial to drink protein shakes that are high in calories, but consult with a doctor before making any serious changes.
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References
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