COPD: What Are Its Symptoms and Risk Factors?

COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that is prevalent in elderly patients. It causes obstructed airflow from the lungs and is typically caused by long-term exposure to particulate matter or gases, usually from smoke. Treatment and healthcare services in New Jersey are necessary to manage COPD.

The symptoms of COPD do not usually appear until significant lung damage has occurred. Its symptoms typically worsen over time, especially if smoking exposure continues. The symptoms of COPD include:

• Chest tightness, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
• A chronic cough and frequent respiratory infections.
• Low energy and unintended weight loss in later stages.

Individuals with COPD tend to experience exacerbations which are episodes where their symptoms are worse than the usual day-to-day variation. These episodes may persist for several days. Senior care and treatment are necessary to manage these symptoms.

The largest risk factor for COPD is long-term cigarette smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke. Asthma is a chronic, inflammatory airway disease that is a risk factor for developing COPD. Smoking with asthma further increases the risk of developing COPD. Moreover, long-term occupational exposure to vapors and chemicals that inflame and irritate the lungs also contributes to COPD.

Primary care services in Roseland, New Jersey are vital to early detection and diagnosis of patients with COPD. recognizing harmful work exposure and smoking cessation may halt disease progression. For more folks with COPD, short-acting bronchodilator inhalers are the first treatment used.

We at Ambrosia Health LLC specialize in a wide range of primary care and wellness services, including weight loss management in New York. Contact us today to discuss your treatment options.