Learn About COPD and How to Help a Senior You Love Live with This Condition
COPD has moved to the forefront of health conversations lately in light of the pandemic, as lung disease causes enhanced susceptibility to serious complications from COVID-19; and with nearly 16 million Americans battling the disease, it’s important for all of us to understand the symptoms, treatment options, and how to best manage COPD.
What Is COPD?
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a progressive condition caused mainly by tobacco smoke, although air pollution and lung infections such as pneumonia can also lead to an increased risk for contracting the disease.
What Are the Symptoms of COPD?
Initially, symptoms may be so mild they may not even be detected, but as the disease progresses, the following signs become more severe:
Coughing, especially coughs that produce a lot of phlegm
Wheezing, squeaking, or whistling sound during breathing
Tightness in the chest
Shortness of breath, exacerbated by physical activity
Additionally, someone with severe lung damage may also develop swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet, reduced muscle endurance, and/or weight loss.
It’s imperative to see a doctor as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.
How Is COPD Treated?
While there’s no cure available for COPD, there are ways to slow the progression of the disease:
Most importantly, someone with COPD needs to quit smoking, and to avoid secondhand smoke and other pollutants.
Medications to ease symptoms, such as wheezing and coughing, may be prescribed.
Pulmonary rehabilitation helps those with COPD learn better coping mechanisms, including how to conserve energy and recommended lifestyle changes.
Supplemental oxygen may be prescribed as well if blood oxygen levels drop.
Why Choose LightSpring Home Care?
Our mission is to enhance the lives of individuals by giving them the best home care possible.
Our home care professionals look beyond the basic needs of our clients to become advocates for their physical and emotional well-being. Whether you are faced with a new diagnosis, recent surgery, or long-term health challenge, the care we provide is rooted in our core values.
Our senior care services allow our elderly clients to maintain as much independence as possible by providing the appropriate in-home assistance and companionship, lifting the spirits of both the elderly and the family caregivers.
LightSpring Home Care provides Home Care Services in the Philadelphia and surrounding cities.
Call us at 215-935-6321
