COPD

Chronic obstructive lung disease or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a condition that causes inflammation and excess mucus to develop in your lungs. At the Pulmonology & Sleep Center in Boynton Beach and Delray Beach, Florida, Frederick Tackey, MD, provides accurate diagnoses and effective treatment for COPD. If you experience symptoms, call one of the offices or book an appointment online today.

What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD is a chronic inflammatory disease that makes it difficult to breathe. COPD is very common in smokers. 

Long-term exposure to irritants (like chemical fumes or cigarette smoke) that damage your lungs may cause it. There are two main types of COPD, chronic bronchitis and emphysema. 

Chronic bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis refers to inflammation of your bronchial tubes⁠— the tubes that carry air to and from the lungs. 

Emphysema

Emphysema refers to damage affecting the air sacs (alveoli) in your lungs. 

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can increase your risk of respiratory infections and lung cancer and lower your overall quality of life. 

What are the symptoms of COPD?

Symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease include:

• Chronic or daily coughing
• Excess mucus
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Unexpected weight loss
• Swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs
• Chest tightness
• Wheezing

COPD is a progressive disease, so symptoms gradually worsen over time. People with COPD often become easily winded or out of breath during exercise or physical tasks. People with COPD also experience exacerbations or periods when symptoms worsen. 

How is COPD diagnosed?

An accurate diagnosis is key to successfully treating your chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The Pulmonology & Sleep Center performs a number of tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. 

To begin the diagnosis, your doctor performs a physical exam and pulmonary function test. The pulmonary function test allows your doctor to determine how well your lungs work. 

Your doctor also performs imaging tests (like a chest X-ray) to check for emphysema or other abnormalities in your lungs. Once diagnosed, you and your doctor work together to determine the right treatment for your condition. 

How is COPD treated?

Although there is no cure for COPD, treatment can help you minimize your symptoms and maintain an active, healthy lifestyle. 

If you’re a smoker, the first step in treating your COPD is to quit smoking. Smoking causes further damage to your lungs and worsens your COPD. 

If you have trouble quitting, you and your doctor can discuss nicotine replacement products, medications, and techniques to make the process easier. 

Depending on your symptoms, there are several medications used to control COPD and limit your risk of complications. These include:

• Inhalers
• Oral steroids
• Antibiotics

If your condition prevents you from getting enough oxygen in your blood, oxygen therapy is another safe and effective treatment option. The Pulmonary & Sleep Center works with you to find the right treatment for your COPD. 

For expert chronic obstructive pulmonary disease diagnosis and treatment, call the Pulmonology & Sleep Center or book an appointment online today.