COPD: how to breathe better

• Chest X-ray: this test can help rule out other respiratory symptoms, such as heart failure or pneumonia.
• Arterial blood test: this test measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. This helps determine if the patient has problems with gas exchange in the lungs.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor may prescribe appropriate treatment to manage COPD symptoms.

Causes of COPD

COPD is mainly caused by cigarette smoking, but also by exposure to chemicals and air pollutants. Let's take a closer look at the main causes:

Cigarette smoking

Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of COPD. The substances contained in cigarettes damage the lungs and make breathing difficult. Smoking increases the risk of developing the disease and worsens symptoms in patients already affected by COPD.

Air pollution

Air pollution can contribute to the onset of COPD, especially if you live in areas with high levels of pollution. Particles in the air can irritate the lungs and cause chronic inflammation.

Exposure to chemicals

Exposure to chemicals such as dust, gas or vapors can damage the lungs and cause COPD. This type of exposure is more common in workers who operate in chemical or construction industries.

Genetics

In some cases, COPD may be caused by genetic factors. Some people have a genetic predisposition to the disease, which is inherited from their parents.

• Summary: COPD is mainly caused by cigarette smoking, but also by exposure to chemicals and air pollutants. Air pollution and exposure to chemicals can contribute to the onset of the disease. In some cases, COPD may be caused by genetic factors.

How to breathe better with COPD: practical tips

COPD can make breathing difficult, but there are some practical tips that can help improve it. Here are some suggestions:

Regular exercise

Regular exercise can help increase lung capacity and improve breathing. But it is important to choose an activity that is not too intense and does not worsen COPD symptoms. Walking, doing yoga or swimming are examples of activities that can be helpful.

Use of accessory respiratory muscles

Accessory respiratory muscles, such as those in the neck and shoulders, can help expand the lungs and improve breathing. You can perform exercises to strengthen these muscles, such as raising your shoulders or tilting your head forward.

Cough effectively

When you have COPD, coughing can be difficult but it is important to do it effectively to get rid of secretions in the lungs. You can try coughing several times a day and adopting a correct position to facilitate its elimination.

Avoiding irritants

Irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and chemicals can worsen the symptoms of COPD. It is important to avoid these irritants or reduce exposure to them as much as possible.

Use of prescribed medications

Medications prescribed by a doctor can help improve breathing and prevent complications of COPD. It is important to follow their instructions and use them regularly for maximum benefit.

• Regular physical exercise
• Use of accessory respiratory muscles
• Cough effectively
• Avoiding irritants
• Use of prescribed medications

Remember that COPD can be successfully managed through a combination of therapies, healthy lifestyle, and attention to your own health. Always talk to your doctor to find the best solution for you.

Treatments for COPD

There are several treatments that can help manage the symptoms of COPD and improve patients' quality of life. Here are some:

1. Bronchodilators

Bronchodilators are drugs that relax the muscles in the airways, thereby increasing airflow into the lungs. They are available in the form of inhalers or powders and can be used regularly or only when needed.

Examples of bronchodilators include salbutamol, formoterol, and tiotropium.

2. Inhaled corticosteroids

Inhaled corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce inflammation in the airways. They are often prescribed together with bronchodilators to reduce symptoms of COPD.

Examples of inhaled corticosteroids include budesonide, fluticasone, and mometasone.

3. Oxygen therapy

Oxygen therapy can be helpful for patients with severe COPD who have low levels of oxygen in their blood. The therapy involves using a portable device that provides supplemental oxygen during physical activity or sleep.

4. Pulmonary rehabilitation

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program of exercises and therapies that help patients with COPD improve their respiratory capacity. The program may include breathing exercises, gradual physical activity, and psychological support.

5. Surgery

In extremely severe cases, surgery may be a solution to improve lung function. A common procedure is lung volume reduction, in which damaged lung tissue is removed to improve ventilation in the remaining lungs.

• Treatments for COPD can help manage symptoms and improve patients' quality of life.
• Bronchodilators are drugs that relax the muscles in the airways, increasing airflow into the lungs.
• Inhaled corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs that reduce inflammation in the airways.

• Oxygen therapy can be helpful for patients with low levels of oxygen in their blood.
• Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program of exercises and therapies that help patients with COPD improve their respiratory capacity.
• In extremely severe cases, surgery may be a solution to improve lung function.

COPD can be a debilitating disease, but there are treatments available that can help patients manage symptoms and live better lives. It's important to talk to your doctor to find the best treatment for your individual needs. With proper care and attention, it's possible to breathe better and enjoy life to the fullest.