0
0
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) has been around for almost 205 years and continues to be one of the most prevalent non-infectious diseases in India. It ranks as the second leading cause of death and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in the country. While smoking remains a well-known cause, COPD is now broadly linked to both first-hand and second-hand smoke, which includes exposure to cooking fuel, hookah, biomass fuel, firewood, and outdoor air pollution. Additional risk factors include increasing age, occupational exposure, gender, pulmonary impairment post-tuberculosis, and socio-economic challenges leading to less awareness of these risk factors.
Interestingly, smokeless tobacco products like gutkha, paan masala, betel, and areca nut—though not directly causing COPD—may lead to chronic bronchitis, a type of COPD due to the chronic aspiration of these products. Given the high prevalence of COPD, many of us may have to live with or care for someone affected by this condition. Here are some strategies for managing day-to-day challenges:
- Diagnosis and Treatment: Consulting a pulmonologist for diagnosis through tests like spirometry and chest X-rays is key. Severity grading is important for monitoring the disease and prescribing medications like inhalers, exercise plans, and supplemental oxygen.
- Making the Switch: Active smokers should quit smoking. E-cigarettes are not a safer alternative, and nicotine patches or gums should be used instead. Switching to cleaner cooking fuels like electric burners and ensuring good ventilation at home is equally important.
- Managing Flare-Ups: Recognizing the signs of exacerbations—such as yellow phlegm, wheezing, fatigue, or increased difficulty breathing—is critical. Avoiding triggers like flu, pollen, dust, and smoke can help, along with timely hospital visits when necessary.
- Optimizing Your Diet: COPD patients often experience difficulty exhaling carbon dioxide. A low-carb diet can reduce CO2 production, while a protein-rich and nutritious diet is recommended for energy maintenance.
- Staying Active: COPD weakens the diaphragm, and other muscles take on the extra workload. Regular exercises targeting upper body and limb muscles can help. Techniques like “pursed-lip breathing” and pulmonary rehabilitation can improve lung function.
- Managing Daily Activities: To minimize strain, COPD patients should pace themselves, take frequent breaks, and avoid excessive bending or standing. Making adjustments like using floor cabinets and shower chairs, wearing loose clothing, and sitting for tasks like shaving can ease symptoms.
- Emotional Support: Living with COPD can lead to emotional distress, so it’s important to build a support system of family, friends, or others with COPD. Professional help should be sought for depression or anxiety.
- Future Directives: As lung function declines over time, it’s important for patients to discuss end-of-life care and directives with healthcare providers. While not yet widespread in India, this conversation empowers patients to make decisions while they are still capable.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general knowledge and awareness. Please consult a medical professional for personalized advice and treatment. COPD management requires a tailored approach based on individual needs.
– Dr. Udaya Sureshkumar, Consultant Pulmonologist, KMC Hospital, Mangaluru
