COPD (emphysema)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or Emphysemais a chronic and progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and it is the fourth leading cause of death globally.


COPD can affect anyone, but it is most commonly seen in people who smoke or have a history of smoking. Other risk factors include exposure to air pollution, second-hand smoke, and occupational dust and chemicals.


The main symptoms of COPD are shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. These symptoms are usually mild at first, but they tend to worsen over time. In severe cases, people with COPD may need to use supplemental oxygen to breathe.


There is no cure for Emphysema, but it can be managed with proper treatment. The primary goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms and improve lung function. This can be achieved through a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes, surgery.
Medications used to treat COPD include bronchodilators, which help to open up the airways, and steroids, which reduce inflammation in the lungs. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, avoiding air pollution, and exercising regularly, can also help to manage symptoms and improve lung function.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to improve breathing. This can include procedures such as lung volume reduction surgery, which removes damaged tissue from the lungs, or a lung transplant.


If you think you may have COPD, it is essential to speak to Dr Aldik about it. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to slow down the progression of the disease and improve your quality of life. Your doctor can perform tests to determine if you have COPD and help you to develop a treatment plan.


In summary, COPD is a chronic and progressive lung disease that can make it difficult to breathe. It is most commonly seen in people who smoke or have a history of smoking, but it can also be caused by exposure to air pollution and occupational dust and chemicals. There is no cure for COPD, but it can be managed with proper treatment, including medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes, surgery. If you think you may have COPD, speak to Dr Aldik to determine the best course of action for managing your symptoms and improving your lung function.