Living with Chronic Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is a term that may be used in reference to various lung diseases such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis or bronchiectasis
As the global pandemic forced us to spend a lot more time inside a home, it is important to understand the effects this has on our lung health and immunity. The air inside our homes can be up to 100x more polluted than outdoor air — according to the Environmental Protection Agency and, believe it or not, these irritants and contaminants can result in several physical and mental health issues. Some of these pollutants come from things like damp and mold in walls or ceilings, pet dander, gas appliances, cleaning products, air fresheners, electrosmog/electromagnetic radiation and many, many more that contribute and aggravate Chronic Pulmonary Disease.
Fortunately, there are ways we can minimize indoor air pollution to protect our health, such as:
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Check for water leaks in and outside the home
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Always remove shoes at the door
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Minimize air freshener use and scented candles
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Remove carpeting or heavy cloth drapes if possible
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Make sure gas appliances are well-ventilated and exhaust fans are installed and functioning properly
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Be aware that our body is more bioelectrical than biochemical, consequently our health is directly affected by the exposure to electrosmog pollution.
Living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) can be difficult. It may require you to make serious changes to your lifestyle and your daily routine.
There are many symptoms, risk factors, and possible complications when living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Keep reading to find out more about what COPD is.
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What Is COPD
COPD is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that can obstruct airflow in and out of the lungs. This condition is closely associated with other lung conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
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Symptoms of COPD
There are many possible symptoms of COPD including:
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shortness of breath
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wheezing
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chronic cough
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chest tightness
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lack of energy
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swelling in lower extremities
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loss of appetite
Most symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease don’t appear until significant lung damage has already occurred. However, they tend to progress and get worse over time, especially if exposure to smoke or other irritants continues.
Although COPD is a progressive disease that gets worse over time, it is in fact treatable. With proper treatment and management, most people can achieve satisfactory symptom control, improved quality of life, and decreased risk of associated complications.
Risk Factors
COPD is most often caused by long-term exposure to environmental air pollutants. In developed countries, COPD typically occurs due to the inhalation of airborne mold spores, contaminated air conditioners in offices or motor vehicles and exposure to electrosmog is a contributing factor to mention just a few. In developing countries, COPD tends to occur due to exposure to fumes from heating, cooking, and fuel consumption inside poorly ventilated homes. The best thing you can do to avoid COPD is to keep your lungs free from all irritants.
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Complications
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease can lead to a series of other health complications. People with COPD tend to be at a higher risk for chest infections such as colds, the flu, and pneumonia. Additionally, people living with COPD are at higher risk for heart problems such as heart disease and heart attacks. COPD may also increase blood pressure and your chance of getting lung cancer.
Because of its symptoms and possible complications, COPD has also been known to induce psychological problems like depression and anxiety. COPD can also make it more difficult to take care of yourself and others. Those suffering from COPD may find that their inability to breathe and their lack of energy restricts their endurance and mobility.
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Where to go from here
There may be times when your COPD symptoms may require you to visit the emergency room. Make sure to seek immediate medical attention if you can’t catch your breath, if you have a rapid heartbeat, if you have trouble concentrating, or if you experience severe blueness on the tips of your fingers and fingernails. Next step is to schedule a COPD Lab Test.