The Obvious Signs Of COPD

Men, you've obviously heard of COPD. It's chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and there are 2 major types. Of course, these are chronic bronchitis and emphysema. You'll deal with both of these! COPD affects about 16 million people in the United States. It's a nasty, nasty lung condition. Yes, men, this one is going to cause long-term breathing problems! The leading cause, the huge cause, of COPD is smoking.

Many, many men find prescription inhalers for COPD an effective treatment. Chances are, they're going to have inhaled steroids and bronchodilators! These meds will help, men. Need a superior fighter? Yes, there are specific medications for emphysema patients! And obviously, herbal remedies for COPD are out there and help too. Talk about all COPD treatments with your doc, and you'll be on the field again.

Shortness Of Breath

Your breathing isn't going to be good if you've got COPD, men. You'll be dealing with shortness of breath, and it'll feel like you can't get enough air. This symptom will be even stronger when you're trying to exercise. Men, it's a huge, huge issue. Many men say it's like they're suffocating! You need the emergency room if you're also dealing with nausea, chest pain, and fainting. Your doc needs to assess this symptom. It means lung function tests, using a stethoscope, and even pulse oximetry! Men, you'll find success with meds and supplemental oxygen. You'll kick this symptom to the curb with these fighters!

Lack Of Energy

Many, many men with COPD experience a lack of energy. So many men, so little energy! Men, it'll be very hard to exercise. You'll feel tired even after short walks! Simple chores like dusting your home and cooking will be harder as well. Men, listen. Your body is going to have a tough time getting up and down the stairs!

There's amazing news. Huge news, in fact! Men, you've got some simple changes to make. Use wheeled carts to move stuff around. Put the things you use the most on low shelves! Put your bedroom on the main floor, and you'll avoid the stairs a lot! Ask for help too, don't hold back on this one. You're going to need assistance!

Cough And Wheezing

Coughing and wheezing are so, so common with COPD. Men, you'll have a persistent cough. There's going to be some green, white, yellow, or clear mucus too. Ever heard the term 'smoker's cough?' This is the cough you can expect with COPD!

As for wheezing? That's the whistling sound you'll hear when you breathe in and out. It's because your airways are narrower than they should be. Men, the air running through them is vibrating the walls because they're so close together! Lots of mucus clogs your airways too. That'll also cause your breath to whistle a bit. And irritants like smoke and pollution trigger disgusting swelling and inflammation. That also forces you to cough and wheeze! Dealing with one of those regular respiratory infections? Expect coughing and wheezing then too.

Chest Tightness

Yep, you'll have a tight chest with COPD. It's because of respiratory infection, an obstructed airway, even bronchospasms! The respiratory infections you have to watch for? The flu, pneumonia, and acute bronchitis! You may get away with a stiff feeling. But men? Men, chest tightness can feel like an elephant is sitting on you. It might even feel like something is squeezing your chest!

Men, you need your doc when you've got this symptom. Get treatment as soon as you can! You'll have inhaled meds, try breathing techniques, and even do exercise training. Get to work now, and say goodbye to chest tightness!

More Respiratory Infections

Men, your lungs aren't working right if you've got COPD. It'll be so much harder, so much harder, for you to clear your lungs of pollutants and bacteria. What happens? Men, you're going to have more respiratory infections. This means the flu and pneumonia, among others. Men, get the annual flu vaccine. And when you need an updated pneumonia vaccine? Get that one too! These are going to reduce your infection risk. Do it! Also remember to avoid pollen and air pollution. Keep your house clean. Use an air filter!

Of course, watch for the warning signs of infection. You'll wheeze more and make more mucus. Shortness of breath? Yes, that's going to get stronger too. A sore throat, headaches, a fever, and nasal congestion are common warning signs too. If any appear, call your doc!