National COPD Awareness Month

Posted On November 1, 2018
Categories Features

November is dedicated as National COPD Awareness Month to bring attention to the chronic morbidity and mortality caused by the disease.  Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the 4thleading cause of death in the United States. This preventable and treatable disease is characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. These symptoms include shortness of breath, chronic cough, and chronic sputum production. COPD is an umbrella term to describe emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Emphysema refers to the destruction on the smaller airway tissue. Chronic bronchitis causes the airways to create excess mucus and inflammation of the airways.

The most common cause of COPD is tobacco smoking. However, it can be caused by inhaling chemical agents and outdoor air pollution. A pulmonary function test is required to make a COPD diagnosis and track the severity of the disease. There are medications such as bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids that reduce the symptoms of COPD, reduce frequency and severity of exacerbations.

Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are recommended for patients with COPD. The classes will teach patients about the disease, how to manage the disease, and provide support to improve quality of life. Hospitals all over the Atlanta area provide pulmonary rehabilitation for patients.

The American Lung Association has created a hotline for patients and their families for COPD information. 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) can help you or someone you know to find a pulmonary rehabilitation center.

Adapted from:

https://goldcopd.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/WMS-GOLD-2018-Feb-Final-to-print-v2.pdf

https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/copd/event-listing/awareness-month/

http://www.lung.org/lung-health-and-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/pulmonary-rehab.html

Contributing Writer:  Amanda Wilkes, Graduate Assistant, Employee Development and Wellness Services, Georgia State University