Chronic lung infections
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is a condition that makes breathing really hard and limits your ability to work or even do simple daily tasks. COPD affects millions of people in the United States and is a leading cause of disability and death.
The most telling symptom is increased breathlessness.This may occur only when exercising at first, and you may occasionally wake up in the middle of the night feeling breathless. You may also have a persistent chesty cough with phlegm that does not go away and frequent chest infections.
DIAGNOSIS:
There are several conditions that cause similar symptoms, such as asthma, bronchiectasis, anemia, and heart failure. A simple breathing test can help determine if you have COPD.
Dr. Shantha will take a thorough medical and smoking history and may order spirometry.This test measures airflow through your lungs and is used to diagnose and monitor your progress with treatment. He may even order a chest X-ray, a blood test, or other tests. Treatment :
There's no cure for COPD, but getting diagnosed early and getting treatment can slow the progression of the condition and control the symptoms. If you smoke, stopping is the most effective way to prevent COPD from getting worse.
Dr. Shantha can order various medications, pulmonary rehabilitation, and other treatments based on your conditions and symptoms.
Click Here