Drew HEALTH Promotes COPD Awareness
December 4th, 2012 byNovember is National COPD Awareness Month. COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S and in Arkansas. But many people may not know what COPD is.
COPD, or Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a serious lung disease that over time, makes it hard to breathe. You may also have heard COPD called other names, like emphysema or chronic bronchitis. In people who have COPD, the airways—tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs—are partially blocked, which makes it hard to get air in and out.
Symptoms of COPD include:
• Constant coughing, sometimes called “smoker’s cough”
• Shortness of breath while doing activities you used to be able to do
• Excess sputum production
• Feeling like you can’t breathe
• Not being able to take a deep breath
• Wheezing
COPD develops slowly, and can worsen over time, no matter how mild they may seem. COPD related shortness of breath, and other symptoms, can get in the way of even the most basic tasks, such as doing light housework, taking a walk, even washing and dressing.
COPD cannot be cured, but it can be treated. See your doctor to learn more about COPD or to be tested for COPD. If you think you are at risk for COPD do the following:
• Quit Smoking
• Avoid Exposure to Pollutants
• Visit Your Doctor or Health Care Provider on a Regular Basis
• Take Precautions Against Seasonal and H1N1 Flu
The Drew HEALTH Coalition meets monthly to develop and implement plans to create healthier communities. If you are interested in addressing COPD, or other health issues, we invited you to attend our monthly meetings. For more information contact Karen Brown at 870-367-6234.
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