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(Medical-NewsWire.com, November 14, 2013 ) Dothan, AL – The well-known expression, “water, water everywhere, but not a drop to drink” is a fitting expression for COPD. Air is all around a person who is suffering from this disease but they are unable to get the life-saving oxygen into their lungs and essentially suffocate. COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is also called chronic bronchitis and emphysema. According to the American Lung Association COPD is the third leading cause of death in the United States. Every November is set aside to create public awareness for this killing disease which affects an estimated 24 million Americans.
COPD is a lung disease in which the airways become obstructed making breathing difficult. Death is caused by the airways becoming so obstructed that air cannot pass. For some patients in the later stages of illness, death comes after the struggle to get air in and out of the lungs completely exhausts the patient to the point that they no longer even have the strength to continue to breathe.
At this time there is not a cure for COPD. However, as the primary cause of the disease is cigarette smoke inhalation, the disease can be prevented in most cases. Other causes are exposure to dust or chemicals. A genetic mutation may also cause the illness in rare cases.
People who develop COPD need to immediately review their lifestyle. Smoking and continued exposure to dust or chemicals will only cause the disease to worsen and shorten the affected person’s lifespan. Removal of these elements has been known to help. Some people who have recognized the early warning signs and sought immediate treatment accompanied with lifestyle changes have continued to live healthy, active lifestyles for many years.
The symptoms of COPD include a constant cough, also known as “smoker’s cough,” shortness of breath during normal daily activities, wheezing and the production of a lot of phlegm. A person who recognizes these symptoms should see their doctor and take a simple breathing test called spirometry.
After diagnosis, the person should attempt to remain as active as possible while removing themselves from any irritants such as cigarette smoke. Medicine, such as inhalers, may be prescribed and should be taken only according to the instructions. Elderly people may find that pulmonary rehabilitation treatments are covered by Medicare. Pulmonary rehabilitation teaches how to exercise and build the lungs’ capacities back up. Becoming stronger and being more in shape physically will help decrease the effects of the disease.
COPD is a horrific disease not only for the person suffering from it, but also to those who must watch someone in their daily struggle to breathe. Making an effort to remove lung irritants whenever possible should be a part of everyone’s life to help prevent people from becoming ill with COPD.
About the Cochran Firm Disability Lawyers
Recognized as one of the nation’s premier law firms, The Cochran Firm handles cases on behalf of clients seeking a Personal Injury Lawyer, Criminal Defense, Medical Malpractice, Bankruptcy Attorney in Atlanta or Social Security Disability Lawyer. The Firm can be reached at 1-800-THE-FIRM (1-800-843-3476) or visit their website at http://www.cochrannation.com. “Working for You.” Article by Benjamin A. Irwin, Esq.###
Cochran Firm Disability Lawyers
163 West Main Street
Dothan, Alabama 36301
1-800-THE-FIRM (1-800-843-3476)
www.cochrannation.com
Cochran Firm
Benjamin A. Irwin, Esq.
800-843-3476
contact@cochrannation.com
Source: EmailWire.Com 
Source: EmailWire.com
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