Risks of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD is a common lung health issue that is often caused by smoking. This is one of the major medical terms that is used to define an ongoing lung diseases such as refractory asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema as well as few specific types of bronchiectasis. COPD disease is generally denoted by breathlessness.
 

Several people mistake coughing or breathlessness as COPD but it can also be a part of the natural ageing process. The fact is, symptoms of the disease often go unnoticed at an early stage and in most cases, it takes many years for them to show any noticeable impact on your body. It means that the patient will only identify the symptoms when it is already too late and the disease has developed to several stages. It is advisable to talk to a medical health expert as soon as you notice any symptoms related to the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
 

Some of the major symptoms that patients observe with the COPD disease are excessive production of mucus, cough and that it lasts for almost 3 months a year with the symptoms continuing for two years. Other than this it may lead to issues like wheezing or chest tightness.

Common risk factors that lead to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease are as follows:

1.       Tobacco smoke

One of the biggest risk factors for COPD is tobacco smoke. Medical experts reveal that as you smoke more, the risks COPD causes increases. The disease is common among marijuana, smokers, and pipe smokers. This disease can also be caused by second-hand smoke.
 

2.       People that are already suffering from Asthma

If you already have breathing trouble due to chronic inflammatory airway disease or asthma, the risks of COPD increases several folds.

3.       Chemical and dust exposure

There are even cases where people work in tough environmental conditions and are exposed to massive dust, vapours and chemical fumes. These factors can also cause inflammation and irritation in lungs. It is important to avail appropriate COPD treatment at the right time.
 

4.       Burning fuel

If a house does not have proper ventilation, even the fuel burnt during heating or cooking may lead to a higher risk of COPD. Professionals suggest dealing with this problem by ensuring a constant escape and circulation for air particles.
 

5.       Age matters

Studies reveal that COPD starts showing its impact on the body with age. Most COPD cases are observed in people who have crossed the age of 40.
 

6.       Genetics play an important role

You might have heard about an uncommon genetic disorder that is named as an alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency. This too is a major cause of COPD. According to researchers, genetic factors often play a great role in making a person susceptible to disease.

A person who does not receive the right treatment for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease may further develop several complications like depression, high blood pressure, lung cancer, heart issues and respiratory infections. It is advisable to contact a medical professional on time and begin with the right COPD treatment to avoid any major trouble.

At Philips, we put in our best efforts by offering our products, technology and services to enable you to live a healthy life. To find out how we can help you, please visit us at https://www.philips.co.in/healthcare/homecare/respiratory-diseases/bronchiectasis