Ask the Doctor: COPD
With Maria Young, M.D.

Q. What is COPD?

A. COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a condition in which there is a limited airflow while exhaling. The most common causes are chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Q. What are the symptoms?

A. COPD is a progressive illness. Symptoms are usually mild at first but can worsen over time. Common symptoms are cough, sputum production, wheezing, and shortness of breath (especially with exertion). Later in the illness, patients can have fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath at rest, and low oxygen levels.

Q. How is it treated?

A. There is no cure for COPD; the goal of treatment is to control symptoms and possibly slow progression of the disease. Treatments include bronchodilators (medications that open airways) or steroids (medications that decrease inflammation). Bronchodilators and steroids can also be given in pill form.

Q. Can COPD be prevented?

A. The best way to prevent COPD is to quit smoking.

Q. I have COPD. Is there anything I can do to help myself feel better?

A. Yes. Most importantly, stop smoking. Studies of patients with COPD show that quitting slows progression of the disease. Ask your doctor for help to quit smoking. Also, take your medications as directed and get your pneumonia and flu shots regularly. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs have been shown to increase quality of life, decrease need for hospitalization, and improve exercise tolerance. Some patients with COPD have low levels of oxygen in the blood. These patients can see improved quality of life and longer life expectancy with oxygen therapy.

Dr. Maria Young is a board-certified internist at North Canton Medical Foundation. She takes special interest in diabetes, geriatrics, women's health, and preventive medicine. To schedule an appointment, please call 330-433-1555.