COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is the name given to a group of diseases that block air passage to the lungs and cause breathing issues. COPD includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma in some cases. According to experts, more than 11 million people in the country are diagnosed with this condition. Despite abundant information available about COPD, most patients often ignore it until the disease has reached its advanced stages.

Common causes of COPD
It is important to understand the COPD information that is available, as it can help you recognize the early signs of this disease and in turn, take the proper medical care needed to treat it.

• Unhealthy lifestyle habits
• Exposure to air borne pollutants at home and work
• Genetic factors
• Respiratory infections

Treatment of COPD
COPD information is the key to the start of any treatment. Understanding the disease and recognizing the symptoms is very important. Though there is no cure for COPD yet, it is still treatable, if it is not in the advanced stages.

Prescribed treatment options: Rescue and control treatment options are the ones mainly prescribed to patients with this condition.

Oxygen therapy: This may not be required for every COPD patient. For patients with low oxygen levels, the possible side effects should be considered.

Social Support: This is more of a psychological measure. COPD patients need to have a community to talk to and discuss the issues relating to their condition. Many organizations that provide COPD information cite the importance of a social support system that can help patients deal with COPD better.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation: It is a combination of education, exercise, and support, and helping patients control COPD. It also keeps track of the COPD patient information.

COPD needs care in the early stages, so it is advisable to consult a physician when you see the first signs of the disease. Keeping a healthy lifestyle is helpful in keeping diseases at bay.