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Month: August 2023

The Ultimate Guide to COPD

Posted on by mlaming

The Ultimate Guide to COPD

Introduction

Shortness of breath, tightness of chest, wheezing, and more. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is defined by the CDC as “a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems” (CDC,2023). Analogous to how dementia covers a wide array of memory conditions, COPD does the same for breathing difficulty conditions. COPD makes breathing difficult for and affects over 16 million Americans with a variety of diagnoses but shared symptoms. However, for a condition that affects so many, there are still burning questions for the average person about how it affects the body and the person’s mind. In this article, we aim to tell you more about both so you can better assist yourself, or your loved one living with the condition.

The Types of COPD

Emphysema

Emphysema is a COPD condition that develops over and involves the gradual damage of lung tissue. Specifically, Emphysema relates to the “destruction of the alveoli” which are the air sacs in your lungs (ALA, 2023). This condition is often called the most preventable respiratory disease because of its link to smoking. This includes tobacco smoke and marijuana smoke, along with continued secondhand exposure. While some air pollutants (continued occupational exposure to fumes or dust) and other respiratory infections can lead to emphysema its number one cause remains to be smoking. Since this is a gradual disease it can take years to develop symptoms, the degree of onset also varies depending on the level of smoking. Early signs are shortness of breath, coughing with mucus, wheezing, and tightness of the chest. There are several tests that are needed to diagnose if a COPD condition is emphysema specifically. These include “x-rays, pulse oximetry, spirometry and other pulmonary function tests, arterial blood gas tests and electrocardiograms (ECG)” (ALA, 2023). Emphysema can also lead to the development of other conditions. These induce collapsed lungs (pneumothorax), heart problems, and the development of large hotels in the lungs called bullae. Sadly emphysema, like other COPD conditions, cannot be cured but treatments are available to alleviate symptoms. Such as medications, therapies, and surgeries. 

Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is “long-term inflammation of the bronchi” which are the breathing tubes in your lungs and airways (JHM, 2019). This inflammation causes more mucus to be produced in your airways which leads to a wet cough. Again the primary cause of Chronic Bronchitis is smoking since it is not caused by a virus or bacteria, unlike acute bronchitis which can be. In order for the bronchitis to be moved from acute to chronic the individual must have a cough and excess mucus (expectoration) production for most days of at least 3 months a year for 2 years or more in a row. Also, other conditions can cause similar symptoms so those often have to be ruled out before diagnosis. Common tests for Chronic Bronchitis outside of symptoms include Spirometry which is a test that “uses a spirometer device to see how well your lungs are working” (JHM 2019). This may be a recurring test after diagnosis to see how well treatment is working or if the lung disease is progressing. The other common type of test is the peak flow monitor which is a test that “measures the fastest speed you can blow air out of your lungs” (JHM, 2019). The faster you blow the clearer your airways while the slower you blow the more inflamed they may be. Treatment of chronic bronchitis is similar to other conditions under the COPD umbrella but with an added focus on reducing mucus build-up and inflammation. 

 

Asthma

Asthma is a condition in which “your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus” (Mayo Clinic, 2022). Asthma can vary from person to person in strength and symptoms therefore some individuals may go all their life rarely affected by the symptoms while others may have frequent attacks and difficulty breathing. The most common asthma signs are shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing when exhaling, coughing or wheezing attaches that are worsened by a respiratory virus. There are also specific types of asthma that flair up in certain conditions such as exercise-induced asthma, occupational asthma, and allergy-induced asthma. You should see a doctor if your signs and symptoms worsen such as when signs and symptoms of asthma become more frequent and intense, you experience increasing difficulty breathing and need to use a quick-relief inhaler more often. Importantly if you experience rapid worsening of shortness of breath or wheezing, no improvement even after using a quick-relief inhaler, or shortness of breath when you’re doing minimal physical activity it may be a sign of an asthma emergency.

Want all this information and more in one easy-to-read guide?

Click Here

How COPD Affects The Body

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease primarily affects the lungs. This is due to the constriction or destruction of the airways and air sacs. As we breathe in air it goes down our windpipe and into tubes called bronchial tubes (often referred to as airways). Inside our lungs, these tubes branch out like a tree into smaller and thinner tubes called bronchioles. Then these tubes end in branches of tiny air sacs called alveoli. You can imagine these as tiny balloons that expand and contract as we breathe. These airways and sacs are typically stretchy as they fill up with air as we breathe in and contract when we breathe out carbon dioxide. However due to COPD less air flows in and out of our lungs. Continuing with the balloon analogy imagine you’re trying to fill up a balloon but there is a hole in it (damaged alveoli) or you’re holding onto the end of it too tight (inflammation in the tubes or alveoli). In the early stages of COPD this results in symptoms such as a nagging cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and tightness in the chest. These symptoms are where the idea of a “smoker's cough” comes from. Though smokers do make up a lot of COPD cases they are not the only ones. As the disease progresses, the low oxygen in your blood leads to blue/gray lips and/or fingernails, a speedy heartbeat, weight loss, and swelling in the feet and ankles. These extremities are furthest out from the heart and lungs and therefore it takes longer for oxygen to get to them. The heartbeat will increase since due to COPD there will be less oxygen quantity per pump. Meaning your body has to move more blood to keep up with the oxygen needed.

How COPD Affects the Mind

Now that we have covered the basics of how COPD can affect your body, we can now cover its effects on the mind. The lack of oxygen to the brain caused by COPD can have an impact on the brain’s functions and the patient’s mental health. According to the CDC people with COPD may have “overall cognitive impairment or impairment in specific cognitive domains”(CDC,2016). This includes difficulty with processing information, concentration, memory, and self-control. These conditions can cause an individual to become compulsive, unable to stay on task, and forgetful of their surroundings. Since these symptoms are similar to those of dementia, those who develop COPD at an older age may misattribute such symptoms. Furthermore, mental health conditions can develop due to how COPD will affect someone’s day-to-day life. Something as simple as going from the living room to the kitchen for water and back again can become a grueling process with frequent stops to catch their breath. Also if they live in a multistory home, they may have issues getting up and down the stairs which they may have done with ease. This frustration with the disease and its symptoms may develop into feelings of helplessness and depression. These people who were once independent and healthy are now becoming more reliant on others and it can take a mental toll. One way to alleviate this is to make the home more COPD-friendly. Getting different equipment, such as a chair lift, in the home can make it easier for a loved one to get to places they feel they can no longer reach on their own. Another tip is to arrange things so they are easier to access. If you can make it so things they often use are within short distance of each other they are less likely to have an episode or feel needy for asking. Finally, regular outings and socialization are key to promoting a positive mental outlook. These outings should avoid long distances walking since they can flair up their COPD. Take them out to ice cream or a movie, things as small as just going to play cards with them every week can have a major impact on their mental well-being. 

Can COPD Be Reversed/Cured?

Though symptoms can be treated, COPD can not be reversed or cured. Sadly, the lung tissue has already been damaged, and “lung tissue doesn't repair itself.” (Department of Health & Human Service, 2001). The cells that make up your lung tissue are unable to replace the cells that have already been destroyed to create this condition. This often happens due to things such as smoking or inhaling other toxic substances regularly. The effects of COPD can be managed with a variety of treatments and lifestyle changes but can never be fully cured. 

What Are The Options for Treatments?

MOST IMPORTANTLY QUIT SMOKING

The first step for treatment is to quit smoking. This is a vital step to prevent COPD from getting worse and prevent your lungs from becoming more damaged. There are plenty of nicotine replacement products such as patches and gum to assist with withdrawal symptoms. These are available over the counter at your local pharmacy but for more intense cases of nicotine addiction, it is recommended you talk to your physician for one on one advice. Also, various addiction support groups are out there to aid with the transition/recovery.

Medication

The next step is often one of the different types of medication to assist with the symptoms and complications of COPD. This includes short and long-acting bronchodilators which help relax the muscles around your airways. Bronchodilators are often used to treat long-term conditions, such as COPD, that cause the airways to narrow and inflamed. There are also inhaled steroids that can help reduce airway inflammation and are often prescribed for those with frequent and intense symptoms of COPD. These “corticosteroids, often known as steroids, are an anti-inflammatory medicine” to help reduce inflammation in your lungs (NHS, 2023). Most COPD medications work to reduce the primary symptoms of COPD by reducing inflammation in the airways to promote more efficient breathing. However, there are other treatments for more severe cases.

Lung Therapies

There are also types of lung therapies for those with more moderate or severe COPD. The two most common are oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Oxygen therapy helps deliver an increased amount of oxygen to your lungs to assist with loss of breath. This therapy primarily focuses on the issue of not getting enough oxygen in your bloodstream. Depending on the level of COPD a large, in-home unit may be suggested and worn throughout the day and night. However, Small and portable units can assist with shortness of breath when out and about in your daily life. Typically these devices are provided by a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider. Furthermore, the size of the oxygen delivery system will vary depending on the low of oxygen needed to stabilize oxygen levels. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs combine exercise training, nutrition advice, education, and counseling. Your doctor will likely refer you to a specialist if this program is recommended. These programs are referred to individuals with worsening COPD and can help prevent hospital readmissions. Another positive impact of these programs is they offer a group setting so you have the chance to meet others with the condition. This can assist with the mental effects of COPD by providing an “opportunity to give and receive peer support” (ALA, 2023). Exercising your lungs, mind, and muscles can help you enjoy activities with your loved ones and make your daily living easier. However, for those with limited success of the above treatments, there is another option.

Lung Surgeries

Finally, there are surgeries available such as lung transplants, bullectomy, and lung volume reduction surgery. Lung transplant surgery is “a surgical procedure to replace a diseased or failing lung with a healthy lung” which often comes from a deceased donor (Mayo Clinic, 2022). This type of surgery is reserved for more severe conditions and when other treatments have not worked or resulted in sufficient improvement. This can be a replacement of just one or both lungs and can involve many complications. The Bullectomy is a surgery where surgeons “remove air pockets in the lungs” (Lung Health, 2023). While these alveoli typically assist in your breathing, by exchanging oxygen from the air with co2 from your blood, damaged ones can form air pockets and need to be removed. Finally, lung volume reduction surgery is when dead or damaged parts of the lung are removed in order to allow the remaining tissue to function better. After lung volume reduction surgery the “diaphragm contracts and reflexes more effectively and efficiently” (Mayo Clinic, 2018). With the damaged part of the lung removed your diaphragm has to move less of your lungs to breathe in and out. All of these surgeries can be used to treat the symptoms of COPD but consult your doctor about the next steps. 

Top 5 Resources for COPD

#1) MY COPD Action and Management Plan - American Lung Association

What is it?

The COPD action plan breaks down the common symptoms of COPD into three different zones. The green zone is a baseline for a good day, the yellow zone for flare-ups, and finally the red zone for when there is an urgent medical need. Each of these zones also includes helpful steps or actions to take along with making it easy to track what has and hasn’t been done. The second page is a COPD management plan. This management plan includes a variety of medical information about an individual that can be used to recount vital medical information to a doctor or medical professional. Furthermore, some of this data pairs well with the action plan on the previous page. Not to mention there is a QR code at the bottom to access additional resources and video

Why is it helpful?

There are a couple of different things that make this resource useful. The first is the documentation of symptoms and medical information on the management plan. After documenting for a week or so, you or a loved one can better judge the different zones in the action plan. Therefore you can be better prepared for a flare-up or medical emergency. Furthermore, the medical information on the management plan is extremely helpful in communicating your symptoms and baselines to medical professionals. Since everyone’s experience with COPD is different what may seem like a minor change for some could be big for others. It also makes things easier if the individual with COPD is experiencing a mental haze to have all this documented. Also if multiple different medical professionals (DME, Home Care, PT/OT, etc.) are assisting in care for yourself or a loved one then this assists with clear communication between them. The second benefit of this document is the clear green, yellow, and red system. It can be difficult to differentiate how COPD is affecting someone day to day and to communicate that well. The American Lung Association has made it easier along with action steps to fit the different zones based on how they are feeling. Also, you can personalize each of these steps and actions in accordance with what fits you or your loved ones best. Such as how often to take their inhaler, what medications they may be on, etc.

#2) What should I know about managing the home of someone living with COPD? - National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute

What is it?

This resource/module is broken down into eight parts to assist with making a home/living space accessible and safe for a loved one with COPD. The first section covers the challenges you or a loved one may experience in the home. This includes some general tips and reminders about how to make the home a bit safer for a loved one with COPD. The next section covers the first steps you should take to move towards a safer home including removing indoor triggers and managing the effects of smoke and radon. The third section then covers how to best manage oxygen supplies if your loved one is on oxygen. Section four covers medication organization and management. Section five moves towards the outdoors which is also continued in section six. Finally sections seven and eight cover specific tips for warm and cold weather since they impact COPD and its symptoms differently.

Why is it helpful?

This is a useful document since a loved one’s environment can have a large impact on their condition and treatment. Small changes can seem unimportant but they could prove to be important when it comes to a loved one’s health and safety. Removing and managing certain triggers can make it so your loved one has flair-ups less often. Also, the advice on storing/managing medications can be extremely useful because the forgetfulness that can develop from COPD may result in mixed or missed medications. Not to mention the in-depth assistance on oxygen equipment storage and maintenance. Oxygen therapy can not only be ineffective if not done properly but can potentially lead to further damage or infections if not handled correctly. Also, the tips can help prevent the ignition of the gas or tanks since oxygen is flammable.

#3) How do I take care of myself while managing someone else’s care? - National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute

What is it?

This resource covers the different roles a caregiver of COPD fulfills while caring for a loved one. From guardian to support system to family member, there are many roles you will often try to fill at once. The most important part this resource covers is taking care of your mind and body while doing so. This section includes warning signs of anxiety, depression, and stress. Next, the resource covers some of the different support networks out there and how to find the right one for yourself. Finally, it covers how to build up a care management team to take some of the burden and roles off of yourself. This also includes navigating changing relationships and roles for yourself.

Why is it helpful?

Often caregivers of a loved one neglect their own well being order to care for another. Sometimes they don’t realize this until it is too late and suffer from caregiver burnout. It is vital for your own and loved one's health that you take care of yourself. You can’t take care of someone properly if you are overwhelmed or stressed out by a situation and the large amount of energy it may require. If you notice yourself being short with a loved one or rushing certain tasks out of frustration, it may be time to take a step back and read over this resource. After following the steps in this resource, you can work to not only take care of your loved one but also build up a support network for yourself.

#4) Palliative Care and Lung Disease - American Lung Association

What is it?

Simply put this is a quick overview of what palliative care is and how it can assist someone with COPD. The document gives advice on why you may want palliative care, how to get it, and how to pay for it. It also has some handy questions that are often asked about Palliative care with their answers.

Why is it helpful?

Palliative care is a term thrown around a lot but is never clearly defined/explained. This resource does so and provides answers to many of the common questions you or a loved one may have when it comes to palliative care.  Palliative care can be a great resource to alleviate stress for both the one with COPD and their caretaker(s).

#5) CDC Resource Center for COPD - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

What is it?

If you’re looking for a deep dive into the scientific and medical side of COPD then you will want to look here. The CDC has compiled its reports, articles, and resources all into one page, This includes reports on COPD, COPD treatments, and COPD advocation. The first two resources are ways for you to get involved in the CDC’s advocacy of COPD. The page is also broken down into general information, rehabilitation, self-management, and patient support groups.

Why is it helpful?

The CDC is always an excellent and trusted resource for information on diseases, their effects, and their treatments. This information can be extremely useful when caring for a loved one with COPD or talking to a loved one about it. The only downside is it is very text-heavy and full of scientific terms so it’s best to take it in bite-sized pieces over time so you can more easily process what you’ve learned.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a term used to cover a variety of medical conditions affecting your lungs. These diseases not only affect your body through difficulty breathing but also the functions of the body that are sensitive to oxygen loss. Not to mention the added effects of the disease on the mind and how it can lead to memory loss and mental health conditions if not treated right. Speaking of treatment there are a variety of them out there so it's best to start with the cause and work up from there.

Hopefully, we have now thoroughly informed you about COPD. Below is a copy of our most recent guide on COPD which includes:

  • The information above (in a convenient document)
  • Additional Resources (Community Resources, Helpful Blogs, etc)
  • And an extra section on what to do when COPD worsens (Not available elsewhere)
Click Here

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, June 30). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/copd/index.html#:~:text=What%20is%20COPD%3F,includes%20emphysema%20and%20chronic%20bronchitis. 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2016, January 7). Association of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with increased confusion or memory loss and functional limitations among adults. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Association, A. L. (n.d.). Emphysema. American Lung Association. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/emphysema#:~:text=Emphysema%20is%20one%20of%20the,alveoli%20(tiny%20air%20sacs).

Chronic bronchitis. JHM. (2019, November 19). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/chronic-bronchitis#:~:text=Chronic%20bronchitis%20is%20often%20part,may%20also%20play%20a%20role.

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, March 5). Asthma. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/symptoms-causes/syc-20369653

Department of Health & Human Services. (2001, November 28). Lung conditions - chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Better Health Channel. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/lung-conditions-chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, December 14). Lung Transplant. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lung-transplant/about/pac-20384754

Health, S. V. H. (n.d.). Home. St Vincent’s Lung Health. https://www.svhlunghealth.com.au/procedures/procedures-treatments/bullectomy

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2018, November 16). Lung Volume Reduction Surgery. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lung-volume-reduction-surgery/about/pac-20385045

Corticosteroids. NHS inform. (2023, June 15). https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/medicines-and-medical-aids/types-of-medicine/corticosteroids#:~:text=Corticosteroids%2C%20often%20known%20as%20steroids,on%20top%20of%20the%20kidneys).

Association, A. L. (2023, March 10). The Basics of Pulmonary Rehabilitation. The Basics of Pulmonary Rehabilitation | American Lung Association. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/pulmonary-rehab

Our Top 5 Resources About COPD

Posted on by mlaming

Our Top 5 Resources About COPD

Introduction

As you may have experienced, there are a wide variety of resources out there about and for COPD. It can be difficult to know where to start, what ones are trustworthy, and which ones are even worth your time. So, we evaluated them for you and picked our top five for this article. Each section explains what the resource is and why we chose it so, you can get a summary before diving into each individual resource.

#1) MY COPD Action and Management Plan - American Lung Association

COPD action

What is it?

The COPD action plan breaks down the common symptoms of COPD into three different zones. The green zone is a baseline for a good day, the yellow zone for flare-ups, and finally the red zone for when there is an urgent medical need. Each of these zones also includes helpful steps or actions to take along with making it easy to track what has and hasn’t been done. The second page is a COPD management plan. This management plan includes a variety of medical information about an individual that can be used to recount vital medical information to a doctor or medical professional. Furthermore, some of this data pairs well with the action plan on the previous page. Not to mention there is a QR code at the bottom to access additional resources and video

Why is it helpful?

There are a couple of different things that make this resource useful. The first is the documentation of symptoms and medical information on the management plan. After documenting for a week or so, you or a loved one can better judge the different zones in the action plan. Therefore you can be better prepared for a flare-up or medical emergency. Furthermore, the medical information on the management plan is extremely helpful in communicating your symptoms and baselines to medical professionals. Since everyone’s experience with COPD is different what may seem like a minor change for some could be big for others. It also makes things easier if the individual with COPD is experiencing a mental haze to have all this documented. Also if multiple different medical professionals (DME, Home Care, PT/OT, etc.) are assisting in care for yourself or a loved one then this assists with clear communication between them. The second benefit of this document is the clear green, yellow, and red system. It can be difficult to differentiate how COPD is affecting someone day to day and to communicate that well. The American Lung Association has made it easier along with action steps to fit the different zones based on how they are feeling. Also, you can personalize each of these steps and actions in accordance with what fits you or your loved ones best. Such as how often to take their inhaler, what medications they may be on, etc. 

#2) What should I know about managing the home of someone living with COPD? - National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute

CG TK HOME

What is it?

This resource/module is broken down into eight parts to assist with making a home/living space accessible and safe for a loved one with COPD. The first section covers the challenges you or a loved one may experience in the home. This includes some general tips and reminders about how to make the home a bit safer for a loved one with COPD. The next section covers the first steps you should take to move towards a safer home including removing indoor triggers and managing the effects of smoke and radon. The third section then covers how to best manage oxygen supplies if your loved one is on oxygen. Section four covers medication organization and management. Section five moves towards the outdoors which is also continued in section six. Finally sections seven and eight cover specific tips for warm and cold weather since they impact COPD and its symptoms differently.

Why is it helpful?

This is a useful document since a loved one’s environment can have a large impact on their condition and treatment. Small changes can seem unimportant but they could prove to be important when it comes to a loved one’s health and safety. Removing and managing certain triggers can make it so your loved one has flair-ups less often. Also, the advice on storing/managing medications can be extremely useful because the forgetfulness that can develop from COPD may result in mixed or missed medications. Not to mention the in-depth assistance on oxygen equipment storage and maintenance. Oxygen therapy can not only be ineffective if not done properly but can potentially lead to further damage or infections if not handled correctly. Also, the tips can help prevent the ignition of the gas or tanks since oxygen is flammable.

#3) How do I take care of myself while managing someone else’s care? - National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute

CG TK SELF CARE

What is it?

This resource covers the different roles a caregiver of COPD fulfills while caring for a loved one. From guardian to support system to family member, there are many roles you will often try to fill at once. The most important part this resource covers is taking care of your mind and body while doing so. This section includes warning signs of anxiety, depression, and stress. Next, the resource covers some of the different support networks out there and how to find the right one for yourself. Finally, it covers how to build up a care management team to take some of the burden and roles off of yourself. This also includes navigating changing relationships and roles for yourself.

Why is it helpful?

Often caregivers of a loved one neglect their own well being order to care for another. Sometimes they don’t realize this until it is too late and suffer from caregiver burnout. It is vital for your own and loved one's health that you take care of yourself. You can’t take care of someone properly if you are overwhelmed or stressed out by a situation and the large amount of energy it may require. If you notice yourself being short with a loved one or rushing certain tasks out of frustration, it may be time to take a step back and read over this resource. After following the steps in this resource, you can work to not only take care of your loved one but also build up a support network for yourself.

#4) Palliative Care and Lung Disease - American Lung Association

Palliative care LUng org

What is it?

Simply put this is a quick overview of what palliative care is and how it can assist someone with COPD. The document gives advice on why you may want palliative care, how to get it, and how to pay for it. It also has some handy questions that are often asked about Palliative care with their answers.

Why is it helpful?

Palliative care is a term thrown around a lot but is never clearly defined/explained. This resource does so and provides answers to many of the common questions you or a loved one may have when it comes to palliative care.  Palliative care can be a great resource to alleviate stress for both the one with COPD and their caretaker(s).

#5) CDC Resource Center for COPD - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

CDC resrouces COPD

What is it?

If you’re looking for a deep dive into the scientific and medical side of COPD then you will want to look here. The CDC has compiled its reports, articles, and resources all into one page, This includes reports on COPD, COPD treatments, and COPD advocation. The first two resources are ways for you to get involved in the CDC’s advocacy of COPD. The page is also broken down into general information, rehabilitation, self-management, and patient support groups.

Why is it helpful?

The CDC is always an excellent and trusted resource for information on diseases, their effects, and their treatments. This information can be extremely useful when caring for a loved one with COPD or talking to a loved one about it. The only downside is it is very text-heavy and full of scientific terms so it’s best to take it in bite-sized pieces over time so you can more easily process what you’ve learned.

Conclusion

In summary, there are a variety of resources out there to assist and educate you. Though these are our top five, that does not mean there are no other great options out there. These resources are meant to be a starting point in your COPD education. If you have additional questions about palliative care specifically we can be a great resource (home care is a type of palliative care).

Hopefully, we have now thoroughly informed you about COPD. Below is a copy of our most recent guide on COPD which includes:

  • The information above (in a convenient document)
  • Additional Resources (Community Resources, Helpful Blogs, etc)
  • And an extra section on what to do when COPD worsens (Not available elsewhere)
The Definitive Guide To COPD
Click Here

What Are The Types of COPD?

Posted on by mlaming

What are the types of COPD?

Introduction

One of the top questions online when searching about COPD is “Are COPD and emphysema the same”. While emphysema is a type of COPD it is not the other way around. Such as how Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia. While COPD is a medical term that covers a variety of conditions we are going to break down and cover the three most common types emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and asthma.

Emphysema

Emphysema is a COPD condition that develops over and involves the gradual damage of lung tissue. Specifically, Emphysema relates to the “destruction of the alveoli” which are the air sacs in your lungs (ALA, 2023). This condition is often called the most preventable respiratory disease because of its link to smoking. This includes tobacco smoke and marijuana smoke, along with continued secondhand exposure. While some air pollutants (continued occupational exposure to fumes or dust) and other respiratory infections can lead to emphysema its number one cause remains to be smoking. Since this is a gradual disease it can take years to develop symptoms, the degree of onset also varies depending on the level of smoking. Early signs are shortness of breath, coughing with mucus, wheezing, and tightness of the chest. There are several tests that are needed to diagnose if a COPD condition is emphysema specifically. These include “x-rays, pulse oximetry, spirometry and other pulmonary function tests, arterial blood gas tests and electrocardiograms (ECG)” (ALA, 2023). Emphysema can also lead to the development of other conditions. These induce collapsed lungs (pneumothorax), heart problems, and the development of large hotels in the lungs called bullae. Sadly emphysema, like other COPD conditions, cannot be cured but treatments are available to alleviate symptoms. Such as medications, therapies, and surgeries. 

Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is “long-term inflammation of the bronchi” which are the breathing tubes in your lungs and airways (JHM, 2019). This inflammation causes more mucus to be produced in your airways which leads to a wet cough. Again the primary cause of Chronic Bronchitis is smoking since it is not caused by a virus or bacteria, unlike acute bronchitis which can be. In order for the bronchitis to be moved from acute to chronic the individual must have a cough and excess mucus (expectoration) production for most days of at least 3 months a year for 2 years or more in a row. Also, other conditions can cause similar symptoms so those often have to be ruled out before diagnosis. Common tests for Chronic Bronchitis outside of symptoms include Spirometry which is a test that “uses a spirometer device to see how well your lungs are working” (JHM 2019). This may be a recurring test after diagnosis to see how well treatment is working or if the lung disease is progressing. The other common type of test is the peak flow monitor which is a test that “measures the fastest speed you can blow air out of your lungs” (JHM, 2019). The faster you blow the clearer your airways while the slower you blow the more inflamed they may be. Treatment of chronic bronchitis is similar to other conditions under the COPD umbrella but with an added focus on reducing mucus build-up and inflammation. 

Asthma

Asthma is a condition in which “your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus” (Mayo Clinic, 2022). Asthma can vary from person to person in strength and symptoms therefore some individuals may go all their life rarely affected by the symptoms while others may have frequent attacks and difficulty breathing. The most common asthma signs are shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing when exhaling, coughing or wheezing attaches that are worsened by a respiratory virus. There are also specific types of asthma that flair up in certain conditions such as exercise-induced asthma, occupational asthma, and allergy-induced asthma. You should see a doctor if your signs and symptoms worsen such as when signs and symptoms of asthma become more frequent and intense, you experience increasing difficulty breathing and need to use a quick-relief inhaler more often. Importantly if you experience rapid worsening of shortness of breath or wheezing, no improvement even after using a quick-relief inhaler, or shortness of breath when you’re doing minimal physical activity it may be a sign of an asthma emergency.

Conclusion

In summary, COPD covers a variety of conditions that all have to do with your breathing and lungs. The most common types are emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and asthma. Emphysema is the destruction of the alveoli caused by smoking. Chronic bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchiole tubes which often is characterized by excessive mucus build up and asthma is the narrowing and swelling of airways. Though none of these conditions have a cure, they can all be managed via a variety of treatments some of which we covered here. 

Hopefully, we have now thoroughly informed you about COPD. Below is a copy of our most recent guide on COPD which includes:

  • The information above (in a convenient document)
  • Additional Resources (Community Resources, Helpful Blogs, etc)
  • And an extra section on what to do when COPD worsens (Not available elsewhere)
Click Here

Sources:

Association, A. L. (n.d.). Emphysema. American Lung Association. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/emphysema#:~:text=Emphysema%20is%20one%20of%20the,alveoli%20(tiny%20air%20sacs). 

Chronic bronchitis. JHM. (2019, November 19). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/chronic-bronchitis#:~:text=Chronic%20bronchitis%20is%20often%20part,may%20also%20play%20a%20role. 

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, March 5). Asthma. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/symptoms-causes/syc-20369653 

 

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Matthew Laming

Client Relations

Graduate of Northwood University

Your Parent(s) Have Been Diagnosed With Dementia. Now What?

Posted on by mlaming

Your Parent(s) Have Been Diagnosed With Dementia. Now What?

Living With Dementia

Step 1: Educate Yourself

As said in G. I. JOE knowing is half the battle. The first and most beneficial thing you can do is learn more about Dementia. There are tons of different sites that have information on Dementia, we suggest you start your search on alz.org or calling the Alzheimer’s association. They have a plethora of information on Dementia and Alzheimer's and can direct you toward local resources. Though often used in replacement of each other, Dementia is as defined by ALZ.org “a general term for symptoms like decline in memory, reasoning or other thinking skills” where Alzheimer’s “is a specific brain disease that accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases” (1). Familiarizing yourself with the symptoms of dementia will make you more prepared for the changes your parents may have in the future. These include cognitive changes such as memory loss, difficulty communicating, difficulty handling complex tasks or problem-solving. These changes also include psychological changes such as the development of depression or anxiety disorders along with feelings of paranoia and auditory or visual hallucinations. Dementia can arise in a patient due to a variety of circumstances, mostly from underlying conditions meaning it can potentially be treated or maintained. Since Alzheimer’s is such a large chunk of dementia cases it is also important to know about the three stages of Alzheimer’s. The first stage of Alzheimer’s is more mild. Symptoms are not always apparent in this stage but aften difficulty remembering right words or names. Forgetfulness of items and materials are also common, along with an inability to solve complex problems or planning. The second stage is moderate in symptoms. Middle-stage Alzheimer’s can last for many years and is the largest stage. Symptoms for Middle-Stage often include being forgetful of events or personal history (such as a significant other passing), withdrawal from socially or mentally challenging situations, difficulty controlling toileting, and increased tendency to wander and become lost. The last stage is more severe. Late stage dementia typically has symptoms including loss of awareness of recent experiences or surroundings, difficult communicating, and changes in physical abilities. 

Step 2: Create an Advance Care Plan

Creating an Advance Care Plan is a plan that most older adults should create regardless of ability or level of health. It can be a vital tool in an aging adult's health care needs, both current and future. This is especially true for older adults that have been diagnosed with Alzheiemr’s or other progressive diseases.  The CDC defines an advance care plan as “doing what you can to ensure that your wishes and preferences are consistent with the health care treatment you might receive if you were unable to speak for yourself or make your own decisions” which can be a very broad definition (2). There are tons of articles on the subject, including from the CDC and National Institute on Aging. There are formal ways of documenting your loved ones' wishes noted on both. This advance care plan should include things such as future medical wishes, who will be the Power of Attorney, whether they would like CPR or not if they go unconscious, and funeral processions. A legal form for assigning who will be incharge of a loved ones medical decisions, financial decisions, or both is called a durable power of attorney (DPOA). This person is referred to as an agent. They should be someone who knows your loved one well, lives close by, and knows their values. Make sure to pick someone who will carry out your aging loved one’s wishes  and is not afraid to speak up for them. Though a group to make these decisions may seem like a good idea, it can lead to lots of arguments so an individual is preferable. This DPOA may need to say yes or no to treatments or medical tests not currently planned out or discussed. They may also be incharge of deciding who will care for a loved one and where care will be given. Another document for advanced care planning is a living will. This is a form that lets you choose life-sustaining treatments if you are dying or are permanently unconscious. If your loved one chooses to be an organ donor they should have such documents signed and filed. Some states even have it right on a driver’s license. Another common form is a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) Order. This is a form that informs healthcare staff to not use CPR if a loved one's heart stops beating or breathing stops. A final common form is a POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment). This form tells healthcare staff which treatments a loved one does or does not want when they are seriously ill. However not everyone with an advance directive needs a POLST, these are for if someone is very seriously ill. 

Step 3: Create a Support Network

This is a vital step for both you and your loved one. Support networks are more than just a loved ones medical team, they can include family, neighbors, friends, and more. A medical support network is vital to a loved one’s care as they age or their dementia worsens. Open lines of communication should be created by your loved ones doctor(s), direct care staff, and others involved in your loved one’s medical treatment. In order to establish these open channels it may be required that your loved one fill out an authorization to release patient information. An important part of a support network can be your respite plan. Respite care is a planned or emergency short-term break for caregivers. Respite care is a great way to be able to take a break from caring from your loved one. It also is a great way to avoid caregiver burnout which can greatly impact you and your loved one in the long run. Respite can be a family or friend who comes to relieve you for a few hours, a hired caregiver from a company, or even a short stay in a facility. You should also take the time to set up a support network for yourself. It is vital to have people around you that you can talk to and who will be there to support you mentally throughout this tough journey. Keep in mind that you are not alone and there are tons of people out there that are ready to help and support you. There are even online or in person advocacy groups that you can join and discuss your concerns or experiences with. Many people will offer advice based on their own experiences with caring for a loved one with the disease.

Step 4: Be Patient and Flexible as You Adjust

Acceptance of the diagnosis takes some time and so does adjusting to all the changes dementia brings. You should give yourself and your loved one some time to process the diagnosis as an important first step. How people cope with the diagnosis can be completely different from person to person, there is no right approach and some days are going to be more difficult than others. However, patience, flexibility and open communication can aid in the process and provide comfort to the loved one with the disease, letting them know they do not have to face their diagnosis alone. It is important, in the early stage, to let your loved one come to terms with their diagnosis. This includes giving them time to feel sad about how their life will change due to the diagnosis; however, you should encourage your loved one to speak with a trusted friend or professional counselor to help them with the difficult emotions they may be experiencing. It is also vital that you do not let the diagnosis diminish their value as a parent, grandparent, or even great grandparent. The next step for your loved one is to maintain their sense of self and find purpose. You should take time to discuss with your loved one what brings them meaning and purpose in their life and encourage them to stay involved in activities they enjoy. Another idea is encouraging your loved one to connect with others who are living with dementia to learn what they are doing to cope and adjust. With all of this patience and flexibility is key. Your loved one may get to the point they can no longer do things they used to enjoy or it may take them longer to do tasks than before. You and your loved one will need to be patient and adapt to these changes as they come. 

Step 5: Keep Engaging In Activities

A simple way to show support to your loved one is to continue to do activities with them. Something as small as discussing with them about how their day was or what they did today can mean a lot to someone diagnosed with dementia. This is especially still important to do regardless of how their ability to participate in conversations becomes more limited. It is also vital to continue to engage in  family activities. It may be more difficult now but your loved one is still a part of the family and often wants to spend time with you all. Sometimes this can be as simple of going on a walk with them or playing a simple board game with them. There are also a variety of different cognitive activities that you can do with your loved one regardless of their diagnosis. These include working on puzzles together (maybe even a custom one of a family photo), crosswords, or online memory games. Having your loved one read a story or even write one can also be a good way to keep their brain active. You could even have your loved one tell you about a family memory or their childhood while you type it up or write it down to look back on at a later time.

Sources:

  1. Alzheimer's Association. (n.d.). What is dementia? Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia. https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia. 
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018, April 30). Advance care planning and chronic disease management. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/advancecareplanning/index.htm. 
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Matthew Laming

Client Relations Specialist at GLHCU

Graduate of Northwood University

Can COPD Be Reversed or Is It Too Late? 

Posted on by mlaming

Can COPD Be Reversed or Is It Too Late?

COPD Back In Time

Introduction

Though symptoms can be treated, COPD can not be reversed or cured. Sadly, the lung tissue has already been damaged, and “lung tissue doesn't repair itself.” (Department of Health & Human Service, 2001). The cells that make up your lung tissue are unable to replace the cells that have already been destroyed to create this condition. This often happens due to things such as smoking or inhaling other toxic substances regularly. The effects of COPD can be managed with a variety of treatments and lifestyle changes but can never be fully cured. 

If You Smoke, Quit!

The first step for treatment is to quit smoking. This is a vital step to prevent COPD from getting worse and prevent your lungs from becoming more damaged. There are plenty of nicotine replacement products such as patches and gum to assist with withdrawal symptoms. These are available over the counter at your local pharmacy but for more intense cases of nicotine addiction, it is recommended you talk to your physician for one on one advice. Also, various addiction support groups are out there to aid with the transition/recovery. 

Medicational Treatment

The next step is often one of the different types of medication to assist with the symptoms and complications of COPD. This includes short and long-acting bronchodilators which help relax the muscles around your airways. Bronchodilators are often used to treat long-term conditions, such as COPD, that cause the airways to narrow and inflamed. There are also inhaled steroids that can help reduce airway inflammation and are often prescribed for those with frequent and intense symptoms of COPD. These “corticosteroids, often known as steroids, are an anti-inflammatory medicine” to help reduce inflammation in your lungs (NHS, 2023). Most COPD medications work to reduce the primary symptoms of COPD by reducing inflammation in the airways to promote more efficient breathing. However, there are other treatments for more severe cases. 

Lung Therapies

There are also types of lung therapies for those with more moderate or severe COPD. The two most common are oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Oxygen therapy helps deliver an increased amount of oxygen to your lungs to assist with loss of breath. This therapy primarily focuses on the issue of not getting enough oxygen in your bloodstream. Depending on the level of COPD a large, in-home unit may be suggested and worn throughout the day and night. However, Small and portable units can assist with shortness of breath when out and about in your daily life. Typically these devices are provided by a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider. Furthermore, the size of the oxygen delivery system will vary depending on the low of oxygen needed to stabilize oxygen levels. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs combine exercise training, nutrition advice, education, and counseling. Your doctor will likely refer you to a specialist if this program is recommended. These programs are referred to individuals with worsening COPD and can help prevent hospital readmissions. Another positive impact of these programs is they offer a group setting so you have the chance to meet others with the condition. This can assist with the mental effects of COPD by providing an “opportunity to give and receive peer support” (ALA, 2023). Exercising your lungs, mind, and muscles can help you enjoy activities with your loved ones and make your daily living easier. However, for those with limited success of the above treatments, there is another option. 

Surgeries

Finally, there are surgeries available such as lung transplants, bullectomy, and lung volume reduction surgery. Lung transplant surgery is “a surgical procedure to replace a diseased or failing lung with a healthy lung” which often comes from a deceased donor (Mayo Clinic, 2022). This type of surgery is reserved for more severe conditions and when other treatments have not worked or resulted in sufficient improvement. This can be a replacement of just one or both lungs and can involve many complications. The Bullectomy is a surgery where surgeons “remove air pockets in the lungs” (Lung Health, 2023). While these alveoli typically assist in your breathing, by exchanging oxygen from the air with co2 from your blood, damaged ones can form air pockets and need to be removed. Finally, lung volume reduction surgery is when dead or damaged parts of the lung are removed in order to allow the remaining tissue to function better. After lung volume reduction surgery the “diaphragm contracts and reflexes more effectively and efficiently” (Mayo Clinic, 2018). With the damaged part of the lung removed your diaphragm has to move less of your lungs to breathe in and out. All of these surgeries can be used to treat the symptoms of COPD but consult your doctor about the next steps. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can not be reversed once the damage has been done. However, there are a variety of treatments out there depending on the level of severity that can make your day-to-day living easier.  The first step to wellness is to cut out the cause of your COPD then talk with a doctor and loved ones about what treatments would be best to pursue. Also, there are a variety of agencies out there that can assist with daily living activities such as home care agencies, in-home therapists, and house-making services. These agencies can help with making your daily living as easy and comfortable as possible with such a condition

Hopefully, we have now thoroughly informed you about COPD. Below is a copy of our most recent guide on COPD which includes:

  • The information above (in a convenient document)
  • Additional Resources (Community Resources, Helpful Blogs, etc)
  • And an extra section on what to do when COPD worsens (Not available elsewhere)
Click Here

Sources:

Department of Health & Human Services. (2001, November 28). Lung conditions - chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Better Health Channel. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/lung-conditions-chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd 

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, December 14). Lung Transplant. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lung-transplant/about/pac-20384754 

Health, S. V. H. (n.d.). Home. St Vincent’s Lung Health. https://www.svhlunghealth.com.au/procedures/procedures-treatments/bullectomy 

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2018, November 16). Lung Volume Reduction Surgery. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lung-volume-reduction-surgery/about/pac-20385045 

Corticosteroids. NHS inform. (2023, June 15). https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/medicines-and-medical-aids/types-of-medicine/corticosteroids#:~:text=Corticosteroids%2C%20often%20known%20as%20steroids,on%20top%20of%20the%20kidneys). 

Association, A. L. (2023, March 10). The Basics of Pulmonary Rehabilitation. The Basics of Pulmonary Rehabilitation | American Lung Association. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/pulmonary-rehab 

52727981_10205593117985429_7678424957059072000_n

Matthew Laming

Client Relations Specialist at GLHCU

Graduate of Northwood University