Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
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| Definition |
COPD is a chronic condition of the
lungs. Several types of COPD exist. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis
are the most common types. In both conditions the lungs can be
severely affected. COPD can lead to difficulty getting enough oxygen
into the blood stream and exhaling enough carbon dioxide. COPD
affects the small airways of the lungs called bronchial tubes. In
this condition the bronchial tubes are narrowed and the patient has
trouble getting air in and out of the lungs. Patients with COPD are
at an increased risk of lung infections.
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| Causes |
Tobacco smoking is the most common
cause of COPD.
|
| Treatment |
COPD can be treated but not cured.
The primary treatment involves medications that help relax airways.
These medications are often given by the inhaled route. Steroid
medications may be given both by the inhaled and oral route to
decrease inflammation in the airways. Antibiotics are given in the
presence of lung infection. Some patients require oxygen. When
breathing gets very difficult many of these patients require
admission to the ICU and may require a breathing tube and breathing
machine. Discontinuation of tobacco use is fundamental to the
successful management of COPD.
|
| Comments |
Many patients with COPD can live a
reasonably normal life. As the disease worsens however, endurance
becomes limited and patients fatigue easily. COPD is potentially
dangerous. Patients with COPD should be under the care of a doctor
and should seek medical attention at the first signs of worsening
lung function. An increase in the production of sputum or a change
in the color of sputum (yellow or green) should be brought to the
doctor's attention.
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| Related
Links |
American Lung Association
American Lung Association site index with multiple entries on topic.
See Diseases A to Z, then A-Z Listing of Lung Diseases - COPD
topics.
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety site with
extensive information on COPD.
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ICU Medical Conditions 
