COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a serious breathing disorder that can lead to other severe health complications. People with this condition struggle with frequent inflammation that makes it uncomfortable to breath and causes the production of mucus. If you are suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, our team at Montecito Concierge Medicine can provide you with ongoing treatment, support, and the care needed to help you live a comfortable life.
What Is COPD?
COPD refers to a cluster of symptoms that occur when the lungs become inflamed, obstructing airflow, producing mucus, and making breathing extremely difficult, with consistent coughing and wheezing. This is a chronic, progressive condition, but it can often be managed with proper medication and lifestyle changes.
What Are the Types of COPD?
COPD can come with emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or usually both. In chronic bronchitis, the bronchial tubes become inflamed, making it harder for them to carry air to and from the lungs. In emphysema, the alveoli of the bronchioles, the smallest air tubes in the lungs, have been destroyed. This is almost always because of years of cigarette smoking, although exposure of the lungs to other contaminants like certain gasses and toxic particulates can also cause this condition.
What Causes This Condition?
People with COPD frequently struggle to breathe, with nearly constant coughing, wheezing, and mucus production. Long term consequences, especially when it is not managed properly, can include lung cancer and heart issues. In the US, COPD is almost always the result of years of smoking, although not all long-term smokers will get it. In other countries, living in poorly ventilated homes or constant exposure to environmental contaminants could lead to COPD.
How Do We Treat COPD?
If you have COPD, the most important thing you can do is stop smoking immediately. At Montecito Concierge Medicine, we can help you with a smoking cessation program. You should also remove yourself from environmental toxins if they are present in your daily life. We recommend and can also provide regular immunizations to avoid respiratory infections that can exacerbate the condition.
How Can I Get COPD Treatment at Montecito Concierge Medicine?
At Montecito Concierge Medicine, we offer judgment-free treatment of all your health concerns. If you need help making lifestyle changes to slow the progress of your COPD, we are more than willing and qualified to provide it. For the best, most personalized health care you have ever received, set up a consultation with Dr. Alan J. Viglione by filling out and submitting the form below or calling us now at (805) 892-6500.