What are my treatment options for COPD?
Treatment options for COPD include:
1. Bronchodilators: These medications relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe.
2. Inhaled corticosteroids: These medications reduce inflammation in the airways.
3. Combination inhalers: These inhalers contain both a bronchodilator and an inhaled corticosteroid.
4. Oral corticosteroids: These medications are used to reduce inflammation in the airways when inhaled corticosteroids are not effective.
5. Long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs): These medications help relax the muscles around the airways and improve airflow.
6. Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors: These medications help reduce inflammation in the airways.
7. Antibiotics: These medications are used to treat bacterial infections that can worsen COPD symptoms.
8. Oxygen therapy: This treatment provides extra oxygen to help improve breathing.
9. Pulmonary rehabilitation: This program of exercise, education, and support can help improve lung function and quality of life.
10. Surgery: Surgery may be an option for some people with severe COPD.
Your doctor will recommend the best treatment options for you based on your individual needs and condition.