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COPD COPD Treatment

Take a Deep Breath: Supplemental Oxygen Therapy for COPD

If you've been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD, you may think that dragging around an oxygen canister is just that, a drag. But that extra oxygen is just what your body needs to prevent the damage caused by oxygen deficiency. When used regularly, supplemental oxygen therapy has been shown to improve both the quality and length of life for those who suffer from severe COPD.

In fact, patients can still reap the benefits of extra oxygen even if they have less severe forms of COPD. And all patients can benefit from respiratory therapy to help them breathe better. Be aware, however, that you should consult your physician before using supplemental oxygen since long-term use of high concentration oxygen can have dangerous effects. Gretchen Lawrence, program associate for the National Lung Health Education Program and fellow of the American Association for Respiratory Care, explains how a little bit of oxygen can provide big relief.

What is COPD?
COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a disease that is characterized primarily by an inability to get air out of the lungs, because they have lost their elastic recoil. Symptoms include chronic cough, excess mucous and exercise-related dyspnea or difficulty breathing.

It's the nation's most rapidly growing health problem-ranking fourth among the most common causes of death in the United States. Unfortunately, it's on the rise. Most of the people who have COPD (about 85 percent) have a history of smoking or inhalation of tobacco substances.

How is COPD diagnosed?
COPD is diagnosed through the use of spirometry, a simple breathing test that measures airflow out of the lungs. If the forced expiratory volume or the amount of air that you breathe out is reduced, then classic COPD is diagnosed.

How is COPD treated?
If the patient is a smoker, they should quit immediately. Additionally, there are certain medications that can help with their symptoms. Typically bronchodilators, which are inhaled to help open the airways, are used. Corticosteroids are also given to help reduce the inflammation of the airway. Infection is common in COPD patients, as the lung's normal defense mechanisms are reduced. Infection in the lungs is challenging while treating COPD, because it can lead to bronchitis, which is a sign that COPD is getting worse. Antibiotics are used as needed to prevent infection. Other treatments, including supplemental oxygen, pulmonary rehabilitation and patient education, are also helpful.

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