COPD

What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to several chronic illnesses that affect the respiratory system and worsen over time. COPD affects the airways and lungs, making it difficult for you to breathe and get enough oxygen. 

COPD includes conditions like emphysema and chronic bronchitis that work in different ways to inhibit your ability to bring in air and distribute oxygen to your tissues and organs. Over time, your body can't compensate for the perpetual lack of oxygen, and your symptoms get progressively worse. 

If you have COPD, it’s essential that you have a trusted, long-term provider who works closely with you and monitors your health regularly. Dr. Chavez offers one-on-one personalized care to help you manage your COPD and slow the progression of the disease.

What are the symptoms of COPD?

COPD symptoms vary in presentation and severity depending on the specific disorder. In most cases, symptoms are mild and easy to ignore until the disease has progressed significantly. 

Mild symptoms include frequent cold-like symptoms, occasional shortness of breath, or feeling like you need to clear your throat often. 

As your illness progresses, you may experience signs of low oxygen, including:

• Chronic shortness of breath
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Chest heaviness or tightness
• Fatigue or low energy 
• Coughing and wheezing
• Numbness and tingling in extremities
• Excessive mucus or drainage 
• Swelling in the extremities 
• Arrhythmias 
• Discolored fingers, toes, and lips
  
  

As your MDVIP-affiliated provider, Dr. Chavez monitors you regularly for signs of progression and creates a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique symptoms and lifestyle. 

What are the treatments for COPD?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for COPD. It is a chronic, progressive illness, and your treatment plan changes over time as your symptoms evolve. Your customized plan of care focuses on treating the underlying causes of COPD flare-ups and relieving your symptoms as much as possible. 

Your customized treatment plan may include:

• Smoking cessation support
• Weight-loss support 
• Lifestyle changes
• Oxygen therapy
• Oral and inhaled steroids
• Other medications 
• Breathing treatments 
  
  

Dr. Chavez is an essential part of your long-term COPD management team, who oversees your care every step of the way. If needed, he coordinates your care with lung specialists or other health care professionals who can help you live a full, quality life with COPD. 

For long-term, personalized COPD management, call the office or schedule an appointment online with Pompeyo C Chavez, MD today.