copd
Pulmonary Medicine Services We Provide
Pulmonary Testing - PFT 
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COPD Is Life-Changing. Managing It Can Be Too
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It typically includes two main conditions: chronic bronchitis, which involves long-term inflammation and mucus production in the airways, and emphysema, where the air sacs in the lungs are damaged. Most commonly caused by long-term exposure to cigarette smoke or environmental pollutants, COPD develops gradually and worsens over time. While it cannot be cured, early diagnosis and comprehensive care can slow its progression and improve quality of life.
Recognizing the Symptoms
COPD symptoms can be subtle at first but tend to worsen over time. If you experience any of the following, it’s important to seek medical evaluation:
- Frequent coughing or a chronic cough that produces mucus
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
- Wheezing or chest tightness
- Increased fatigue or difficulty taking deep breaths
How We Diagnose COPD
We use advanced diagnostic tools to determine the presence and severity of COPD:
- Pulmonary Function Test (PFT): Evaluates lung capacity and airflow obstruction to confirm a COPD diagnosis.
- Chest X-Ray or CT Scan: Helps visualize lung damage and rule out other conditions like lung cancer.
- Oximetry or Arterial Blood Gas (ABG): Measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood to assess lung function.
Managing COPD for Long-Term Relief
Although COPD is a chronic disease, there are several ways to manage symptoms and prevent complications:
Inhalers, Bronchodilators & Steroids:
These medications help relax the airway muscles and reduce inflammation.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation & Lifestyle Changes:
Tailored exercise, nutritional advice, and breathing techniques can enhance daily living and reduce hospitalizations.
Frequently asked question
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is caused by long-term exposure to lung irritants like cigarette smoke or air pollution.
Symptoms include chronic cough, mucus production, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
COPD is not reversible, but early treatment can slow progression and improve quality of life.
Teamwork Health offers diagnosis, medication management, and lung rehabilitation for COPD.