Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

The occurrence of a pair of diseases of the lungs, chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).  In COPD, the airways of the lungs become narrowed leading to restricted flow of air to and from the lungs, thereby causing shortness of breath. As compared to asthma, this airflow obstruction is poorly reversible and worsens with time.

COPD ranks among leading causes of death worldwide. Common causes of COPD include tobacco smoking that cause an abnormal inflammatory response in the lung. Also, acute exacerbations (occasional sudden worsenings of symptoms), mostly caused by infections or air pollution are typical to COPD.

At Sunhine, the team of pulmonologists considers a host of options before designing treatment for individual patients. Upon diagnosing an individual with COPD, our team works with the individual to manage the symptoms and ensure better quality of life.

Conditions Treated:

  • Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
  • Chronic Bronchitis
  • Emphysema

Treatment Options:

  • Medications (such as bronchodilators and inhaled steroids)
  • Bronchodilators
  • Pulmonary Rehabilitation
  • Physical Activity Training
  • Lifestyle Changes
  • Oxygen Treatment
  • Surgery
  • Sudden Lung Complications

Know when to seek emergency assistance

A few situations requiring you to act fast and get emergency assistance are listed below:

  • Unusual difficulty to walk or talk
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Lips or fingernails turning gray or blue
  • Hard and rapid breathing even while on medication

Also, it would be greatly helpful if you maintain key information – medication details, hospital, doctor's name and contact details – within reach for immediate access during emergency.