Chronic Lung Disease: Managing Symptoms is Key
Posted on October 25, 2023
Imagine breathing through a straw for minutes or hours. That’s how breathing can feel for someone with a chronic lung disease. Chronic lung disease is also known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and in some cases, asthma.
COPD causes airflow blockage and breathing-related problems due to the following:
- Loss of elasticity in the airways and tiny air sacs in the lungs
- Irritated, swollen or damaged airway walls
- Airways blocked by excessive mucus
The leading cause of COPD is smoking and early symptoms include a nagging cough (or “smoker’s cough”), shortness of breath, wheezing and tightness in the chest. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include trouble catching your breath or talking, blue or gray lips or fingernails (a sign of low oxygen levels in your blood), issues with mental alertness, among others.
Treatments for COPD symptoms can include:
- Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke
- Exercise and breathing strategies
- Bronchodilator, steroid drugs or antibiotics
- Oxygen therapy (in serious cases)
Asthma causes the airways to narrow, and can be triggered by allergens, cigarette smoke, air pollution, respiratory infections, and physical activity. It causes coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest.
Although there is no cure, it can be managed. Asthma is usually treated with two types of drugs: quick-relief drugs (rescue inhalers), which provide temporary relief from symptoms; and long-term control drugs taken daily to control airway swelling. To avoid a serious asthma attack, be sure to use the asthma controller medication prescribed by your provider correctly.
Health New England can help: As a member, if you have been diagnosed with COPD or Asthma, we offer a Care Management program that can help you, at no cost. To learn more, simply contact our Care Management department at (413) 787-4000, ext. 3940 (TTY: 711), Monday—Friday, 8 a.m.—5 p.m.
Sources: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; and www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/health_effects/respiratory/
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