Emphysema and COPD: How to Avoid

Emphysema and COPD: How to Avoid

COPD is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases. COPD is better known as Emphysema. It is estimated that up to 13% of Filipinos have COPD.

With COPD or emphysema there is narrowing of the tubes in our lungs. This causes coughing and sputum. These tubes are damaged due to:

(1) smoking,

(2) inhalation of cigarette smoke,

(3) inhalation of burning or burning smoke,

(4) and air pollution.

What are The Symptoms of Emphysema?

1. Stage 1: Cough - At first it was just coughing. This is called smoker’s cough.

2. Stage 2: Cough and Sputum - In the long run a sputum comes out along with a cough. This is because the lining of the tube in our lungs is damaged.

3. Stage 3: Cough, Sputum and Breath - When you feel short of normal activity such as climbing 2 floors, it is serious. It is quite difficult to treat and needs to be taken to the doctor or hospital.

4. Stage 4: Cough, Sputum, Shortness of breath and Chirping. When there is chirping (like a cat in the lungs), COPD is severe and needs to be taken to the hospital. Often the patient will need oxygen even at home. Let us not procrastinate in this situation.

What Is The Solution?

The solution to COPD is simple: Stop smoking. Also consult a doctor to get the right inhaler for the lungs. These inhalers are helpful but the best prevention really is to quit smoking.

How to Quit Smoking:

1. Will - The person must have a "will" or want to quit smoking. If he has no intention of quitting, it will be difficult to force him. Let's just say the bad effects of smoking.

2. Quit Date - When there is a "will" or courage, set a Quit Date. This is a date when the patient will stop smoking. This is very important. When the Quit Date is near, prepare the patient by letting his or her family and friends know. Family support is needed to be successful. Remove ashtrays and cigarette packs from your home. Also stay away from your friends who smoke to avoid temptation.

3. Cold turkey or gradual reduction - Two ways to quit smoking. It can be a sudden stop (cold turkey) or slow down. It is in this patient. There is also a "medicine" that can help stop.

Consult your doctor to help you with your good intentions to quit smoking.