Complications
COPD can lead to a variety of problems, including:
Infections of the lungs. COPD patients are more susceptible to colds, the flu, and pneumonia. Any respiratory illness can make breathing difficult and cause severe damage to lung tissue.
Heart issues. COPD can increase your risk of heart disease, including heart attack, for reasons that are not fully understood.
Cancer of the lungs. COPD patients are at an increased risk of acquiring lung cancer.
High blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. COPD may result in elevated blood pressure in the arteries that supply blood to your lungs (pulmonary hypertension).
Depression. Breathing difficulties can prevent you from participating in activities that you enjoy. Furthermore, dealing with a major sickness might lead to the development of depression.
Prevention
COPD, unlike certain diseases, usually has a clear origin and a clear path of prevention, and there are strategies to halt the disease’s course. However, most instances are directly tied to cigarette smoking, and the best strategy to avoid COPD is never to smoke – or to quit smoking right now.
If you’ve been a smoker for a long time, these basic words may not seem so simple, especially if you’ve attempted quitting previously – once, twice, or many times. However, keep attempting to quit. It is vital to locate a tobacco cessation program that can assist you in quitting for good. It’s your best bet for preventing lung damage.
Another risk factor for COPD is occupational exposure to chemical fumes and dust. If you work with these sorts of lung irritants, talk to your boss about the best methods to protect yourself, such as wearing respiratory protection equipment.
Here are some things you may do to help prevent COPD complications:
First, quit smoking to lower your chances of developing heart disease or lung cancer.
To minimize your risk of or prevent some infections, regularly get a yearly flu shot and a pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination.
Speak with your doctor if you feel sad or powerless or believe you are suffering from depression.
