The Guide to COPD Therapy
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a term that refers to several lung diseases. These diseases, often categorized as degenerative, gradually continue to block a patient's airflow over time. However, those suffering from COPD have many treatment options, known as COPD therapy. The most effective COPD therapy is simply stopping smoking. For most patients, they will notice a significant lung improvement within the first year after they stop smoking. However, for people who have smoked for their entire lives, lessening the symptoms of COPD by quitting may be too late. For these people, medication COPD therapy may be suggested. Short-acting bronchodilators provide the basis for COPD therapy using medication. These medications oftentimes help patients when they experience severe shortness of breath. If none of these Copd therapy options prove successful, patients may have to undergo a more invasive alternative: surgery.