People with COPD have to work harder to breathe because their airways are constantly clogged with mucus and other particles. Wheezing, difficulty breathing, coughing, and mucus (sputum) production are manifestations. Usually, the cause is prolonged contact with harmful chemicals or particles, such as those found in cigarette fumes. Those individuals who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are more likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, and other illnesses. Housecalls Home Care’s Home Health Care Services can guide you toward the most suitable in-home care option for your aging loved ones. With the assistance of the Home Care Agency, you can determine which aspects of your life need improvement and receive age-appropriate mindfulness and fitness programs to get started.
Manifestations
These often don’t show up until the disease has progressed significantly and until serious damage to the lungs has taken place and, if left untreated, worsens with time, especially in the presence of ongoing smoking.
COPD symptoms may include:
- Wheezing
- Breathing difficulties, especially during exercise
- Mucus that is transparent, whitish, yellowish, or greenish may accompany a chronic hacking cough (sputum)
- Pain in the chest
- Having no energy
- Regular bouts with respiratory infections
- The swelling of the lower extremities
- The defeat of the waistline that wasn’t planned for (in later stages)
Prodromal symptoms are experienced frequently by those who suffer from this disease. During an exacerbation, symptoms deteriorate beyond the typical daily shifts that can last for days.
Why does one develop COPD?
Not everything about what triggers COPD is known. Cigarette smoking is widely acknowledged as the leading contributor to the development of chronic bronchitis and emphysema. When paired with cigarette smoking, environmental factors like air quality and chemical exposure may also have an impact. It’s possible that genes play a role as well.
Complications
- Issues with the heart: The link between COPD and an increased likelihood of coronary artery disease and heart attack is not well-recognized
- Infections of the respiratory system: Those who suffer from COPD are more vulnerable to catching viruses including the common cold, the flu, and pneumonia. An infection in the respiratory system can make it hard to breathe and even damage lung tissue
- Pulmonary arterial hypertension: Hypertension in the pulmonary arteries has been linked to this disease
- To the lungs: Those who suffer from this disease are more likely to get carcinoma of the respiratory system
- Depression: The inability to breathe normally can put a damper on enjoying life to its fullest. Depression is common, and dealing with a major disease can exacerbate its symptoms.
Professionals at Doral Health and Housecalls Home Care are excellent resources for learning more about COPD and how it may affect your aging loved ones. When a person with a chronic illness or handicap enrolls in a managed long-term care program, providing them with ongoing support is streamlined. Consult your primary care physician before beginning any new fitness or activity program. If you need specialized medical attention, please contact +1-718- 9200-9200 to make an appointment or send an email to info@doralhw.org, or you can also log onto https://housecallshc.org/.
