Is COPD a Serious Condition?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is not a single disease. Instead, it’s a condition that refers to a group of lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and sometimes chronic asthma. COPD is a progressive condition characterized by chronic inflammation that restricts airflow to and from the lungs. 

If you or someone you love has recently been diagnosed with COPD, you’re likely wondering just how serious it is and what you should expect. Learn more about this chronic condition to understand what you will be dealing with. 

What Causes COPD? 

COPD is typically caused by exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke, air pollution, and workplace dust and chemicals. Smoking is the leading cause of COPD, and it is estimated that up to 90% of COPD cases are caused by smoking.

COPD Symptoms

COPD symptoms may seem similar to simple upper respiratory infections. But unlike simple upper respiratory infections, they do not quickly subside. COPD symptoms include:

• Coughing
• Shortness of breath 
• Wheezing
• Excessive phlegm production 
• Frequent respiratory infections 
• Chest tightness 
• Fatigue
• Cyanosis

If you catch and address COPD early, traditional therapies may have more potential for benefits. 

Is COPD a Serious Condition? 

Since COPD is a progressive disease that affects your body’s ability to breathe, it is generally considered to be a serious condition. However, it’s also one of the most common lung conditions in the world today. That means there are millions of people living with it daily.

Although there is no cure for COPD, multiple forms of treatment are available to help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. 

Medication 

Bronchodilators and steroids are effective treatment options for many people struggling with COPD. These medications help reduce inflammation, relax lung muscles, and widen the airways to make breathing easier. However, certain conditions that may worsen with COPD medication may disqualify an individual from this form of treatment. 

Pulmonary Rehabilitation 

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program of exercise, education, and support that can help people with COPD improve their breathing, reduce symptoms, and improve their overall quality of life. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs typically last between 4 and 12 weeks, with two to three sessions per week. 

Regenerative Medicine for COPD

Regenerative medicine is an innovative approach to managing a range of medical conditions, including COPD. Using stem cell therapy, regenerative medicine can potentially reduce inflammation, improve lung function, make breathing easier, and improve energy levels. 

What to Do After a COPD Diagnosis 

After a COPD diagnosis, it’s crucial to quit smoking if you are a smoker. You should also try to improve the air quality in your home. Most importantly, you should discuss treatment options with your doctor to find the right one for you. 

This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine for hair, also Stem cell treatment for COPD. Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.