November is also National Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Awareness Month. The disease is the third leading cause of death in the United States.
National statistics show COPD kills more than 120,000 Americans each year and causes serious, long-term disability for many others. More than 12 million people are diagnosed with COPD, and an additional 12 million are likely to have the disease and not know it.
“COPD affects the lungs, and it becomes more difficult over time to breathe,” said Mary Beasely, R.T., manager in Respiratory Therapy at West Shore Medical Center. “Many people know the disease by the names emphysema or chronic bronchitis. The tubes that carry air in and out of lungs become partly blocked.”
Symptoms of COPD include: constant coughing, shortness of breath while performing what used to be normal activities, excess sputum production, feeling unable to breathe, not being able to take a deep breath, and wheezing. The disease develops slowly and can worsen over time, Beasley said.
Risk factors for COPD include smoking, fumes, chemical and dust exposure, exposure to second-hand smoke and air pollutants, or genetic factors.
“Everyone at risk for COPD who has a cough, sputum production, or shortness of breath should be tested for the disease with spirometry,” Beasley said. “Spirometry is a lung function test that can detect COPD before symptoms become severe and also help your doctor determine the best course of treatment for you.”
West Shore Medical Center offers spirometry testing as well as a pulmonary rehabilitation program to help area residents live with COPD.
For more information about pulmonary health, contact your health care provider or call West Shore Medical Center at 231-398-1000.