Do You Have COPD? You Might Have it If…

In 2011, 12.7 million Americans were estimated to have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). What’s even more alarming is the fact that another 12 million people don’t know they have COPD, according to the National Heart, Lung and Disease Institute. Could you be one of them? With that many undiagnosed people out there, it’s very possible. See your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Shortness of breath, especially when participating in any physical activities
• Excessive coughing
• Difficulty taking deep breaths
• Feeling of tightness in your chest
• Lack of energy
• Blueness of the lips and fingernails
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Sputum (mucus-like fluid from lungs) production during coughing sessions

MUST READ: 10 Reasons Why Black Men Need To Talk About COPD More

As the disease progresses, the symptoms may worsen, which is known as acute exacerbation of COPD. The symptoms of COPD suddenly worsen and usually last for several days. In short, it’s a flare up.

Symptoms of acute exacerbation of COPD include coughing and wheezing more than usual, an increase in the amount of mucus and/or a change in the color, fever, fatigue and swelling in your feet and/or ankles.

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How is COPD diagnosed?

COPD is diagnosed using a simple breathing test called spirometry.

How is COPD treated?

If you have COPD, the most important steps you can take to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life are:

1. For people who smoke, the most important part of treatment is to stop smoking.
2. Avoid tobacco smoke and other air pollutants at home and at work.

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Your doctor may also consider the following treatment options:

• Medicine. Symptoms such as coughing or wheezing can be treated with specific types of medicine. Current COPD treatments include inhaled steroids, antibiotics, and drugs called bronchodilators that help open the airways.
• Pulmonary rehabilitation, a personalized treatment program that teaches you how to manage your COPD symptoms to improve quality of life. Plans may include learning to breathe better, how to conserve your energy, and what types of food and exercise are right for you.
• Prevention and treatment of lung infections. Lung infections can cause serious problems in people with COPD. Certain vaccines, such as flu and pneumonia vaccines, are especially important for people with COPD. Learn more about vaccination recommendations. Respiratory infections should be treated with antibiotics, if appropriate.
• Supplemental oxygen. A portable oxygen tank may be needed if blood oxygen levels are low.

The best way to prevent a flare up is by drinking plenty of water so that mucus doesn’t get stuck in your lungs, washing your hands often during cold and flu season, getting the flu shot every year, and seeing your doctor regularly even when you feel fine.

For more on how COPD impacts the Black community, click here.