What Is the Outcome of COPD?

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a progressive disorder most often diagnosed in the middle aged and elderly. COPD makes it difficult to breathe, sometimes interfering with daily activities such as walking and cooking.

Outlook

• The outcome of COPD varies. One person may hardly notice their COPD-related breathing problems while it can ultimately lead to long term disability or death in another. COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States.

Management With Medication

• There are a number of medications used to treat COPD but there is no cure. Symptoms can sometimes be kept under control by using bronchodilators, which open up the airways, and by inhaling steroids, used to reduce lung inflammation.

Other Management Methods

• A few simple things people can do to help manage their COPD in their home include avoiding cold air and eliminating cigarette smoke and other airborne irritants.

Progression

• Follow a health care regimen created by your doctor, and continue to avoid lung irritants to help slow the progression of COPD.

Long Term

• According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, there are an estimated 12 million people with COPD in the United States, but many of them continue to live long, productive lives.