Shortness of Breath, Limited Life? Understanding COPD and Conquering It

COPD is a chronic disease that affects the respiratory tract with clinical symptoms of shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.

COPD occurs when the airways in the lungs become inflamed and narrowed. This condition makes it difficult for air to enter and exit the lungs, causing shortness of breath, cough, and phlegm. The main cause of COPD is long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and dust.

"COPD is a disease that cannot be cured, but it can be well managed," said Dr. Deny N, SpP. "With proper management, COPD sufferers can live an active and quality life."

Here are the steps in managing COPD:

•     Avoid exposure to irritants:   Avoid cigarette smoke, air pollution, and dust.
•     Inhalation therapy:   Inhaled medications can help open airways and reduce inflammation.
•     Oxygen therapy:   If you experience severe shortness of breath, your doctor may prescribe oxygen therapy.
•     Pulmonary rehabilitation:   Pulmonary rehabilitation programs can help you improve your breathing muscle strength, increase activity tolerance, and reduce COPD symptoms.

Dr. Deny N, SpP explained, "The key to managing COPD is to quit smoking. Smoking is the main cause of COPD and can worsen the symptoms of this disease."

•     Vaccination:   Influenza and pneumonia vaccinations can help protect you from infections that can worsen COPD.
•     Healthy diet:   A healthy diet with adequate nutrient intake can help improve lung health and improve quality of life.
•     Regular exercise:   Light exercise, such as walking or swimming, can help improve breathing muscle strength and increase activity tolerance.
•     Manage stress:   Stress can worsen COPD symptoms. Find ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.

  Living a Better Life with COPD:  

Dr. Deny N, SpP emphasized, "COPD should not stop you from living an active and happy life. With proper management, you can overcome the challenges of COPD and enjoy life better."

If you experience COPD symptoms, consult a specialist in internal medicine immediately. With proper management and support from the medical team, you can conquer COPD and live a healthier and more fulfilling life.

  Sources:  

1. Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. (2023). Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). yankes.kemkes.go.id/view_artikel/2718/penyakit-paru-obstruktif-kronik-ppok
2. General Hospital (RSUD) [Hospital Name]. (2023). Efforts to Improve the Quality of Life of Nutrition in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). rsmmbogor.com/upaya-meningkatkan-kualitas-hidup-gizi-penyakit-paru-obstruktif-kronis-ppok