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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic, progressive lung condition. It is characterized by airflow obstruction which can cause coughing, trouble breathing, and other distressing symptoms.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), COPD is the third biggest cause of death globally, accounting for an estimated 3.23 million deaths in 2019.
While COPD is not curable, advances in treatment have dramatically improved the results for people suffering from this chronic respiratory ailment.
How COPD Affects the Lungs?
COPD primarily affects the airways and air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. This can lead to inflammation, narrowing of air passages, and destruction of lung tissue.
The main processes in COPD development are:
1. Inflammation: Inflammation in the airways can lead to swelling and increased production of mucus.
2. Airway obstruction: Mucus buildup and inflammation narrow the airways. This can lead to symptoms like cough, wheezing shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
3. Loss of Elasticity: Emphysema, a common component of COPD, results in the destruction of lung tissue and loss of elasticity in the air sacs. This reduces the ability of the lungs to expand and contract during breathing.
COPD normally develops slowly and can take one of two forms:
· Emphysema– occurs when the alveoli are damaged due to smoking, air pollution, and asthma.
As a result, the air becomes trapped in the lungs, making breathing difficult. This causes shortness of breath, and the disease eventually affects the heart, muscles, and other parts of the body.
· Chronic bronchitis– occurs when the bronchi become inflamed due to smoking, recurrent lung infection, breathing irritants, or hereditary disorders. This results in a chronic phlegmy cough, reoccurring infections, and weakness.
Is COPD Curable?
Currently, COPD is not curable. The progressive nature of the disease can lead to a decline in lung function and quality of life over time. However, it can be improved by quitting smoking, receiving vaccinations, and avoiding air pollution.
It can be managed with oxygen, medication, and pulmonary rehabilitation to slow down the progression and lead a fulfilling life. Also, advances in COPD research, better medicines, markers, and treatments, can change how we handle COPD and help patients more.
COPD Breakthrough Treatments
Here are some notable breakthrough treatments:
1. Endobronchial Valve for Emphysema
Endobronchial valve implantation is a new treatment for severe emphysema that the FDA authorized in 2018. Instead of invasive surgery, a valve is placed in the lung using a tube or bronchoscope. This valve improves lung function and eases emphysema-related shortness of breath.
2. Combination Inhalers
Combination inhalers, which contain both long-acting bronchodilators and steroids, are more successful than regular inhalers in treating COPD symptoms. They widen the airways and minimize inflammation. Thus, providing relief and avoiding unexpected breathing problems. Though they may take some time to show results, combination inhalers are a potential option for COPD management.
3. Phosphodiesterase-4 Inhibitors
Daliresp (roflumilast) is a treatment for severe COPD. It helps relax the airways and lowers lung inflammation. When used once daily, it prevents flare-ups, which improves patient outcomes. However, this does not cure COPD. It is not intended to treat abrupt respiratory crises.
4. Self-Management Interventions
Self-management interventions educate COPD patients about their condition. According to research, they alleviate patients’ helplessness, increase exercise capacity, and improve their overall quality of life.
5. Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Pulmonary rehabilitation educates COPD patients about their condition, symptom management, exercise routines, and nutrition. The aim is to enhance their fitness, breathing, and emotional well-being. Providing group sessions and physical therapy reduces hospital stays and improves overall outcomes for COPD patients.
