Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is an overarching medical term used to characterize a collection of progressive lung diseases (i.e., non-reversible asthma, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis). The main symptom of this very serious disease is shortness of breath that gradually worsens with time. However, many misconceptions exist concerning what COPD, how the disease develops, and how it’s managed.

Let’s look at some truths and falsies surrounding COPD…

Fact 1: COPD can’t be completely cured
COPD is what’s known as a non-curable disease. This means that although patients can’t undo the lung tissue damage once diagnosed, they CAN properly treat and manage their disease to prevent further lung damage. For instance, medical research shows that COPD patients that treat their disease property (i.e., with bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, and oxygen therapy) and quit smoking, reduce flare ups and mucus production while preventing dangerous infections.

Myth 1: COPD only damages the lungs
While many patients with COPD suffer from increased mucus production and shortness of breath, this condition affects more than just the lungs and respiratory tract. For instance, COPD can increase the risk of anxiety and depression as well as significantly increase blood pressure, thus raising the overall risk of heart disease.

Fact 2: Early COPD diagnosis is important
This is absolutely true with so many chronic diseases, and COPD is no different. So don’t ignore the signs (i.e., chest tightness and shortness of breath). Getting diagnosed early can prevent further lung damage, decrease the risk of heart disease, and with proper treatment, help decrease symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

Myth 2: COPD only affects smokers
Of course smoking is a major contributor for many chronic disease, COPD included. However, not every COPD smokes, or is a past smoker. COPD can be caused by several other contributing factors, such as:

• Genetic predisposition – Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic condition that can significantly heighten development of COPD.
• Chemical/toxin exposure – The long-term inhalation of certain external pollutants (i.e., dust, cooking fumes, chemical fumes, and vapors) can inflame and damage the lungs, and lead to development of COPD.

Fact 3: COPD is NOT a death sentence
While COPD is a non-curable disease, it is not a death sentence. Patients that seek professional treatment (i.e., medication such as a Stiolto inhaler for COPD, inhaled or oral steroids, phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors, antibiotics, oxygen therapy, etc.) and make healthy lifestyle changes (i.e., exercise, quit smoking, etc.) can safely reduce their symptoms, prevent further lung deterioration, and greatly improve overall quality of life. Regular gentle exercise (just 15 minutes per day of walking, swimming, hiking, etc.) in particular, can significantly improve blood and oxygen delivery via the heart to muscles.