COPD Research Paper

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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
It was a clear and calm morning, you decide to go for a run at your favorite park. As you finish up your run you notice an old man in his 60’s sitting on a bench have trouble breathing. You went over to help him and he said to you, “I don’t need your help, I have COPD and I never smoked.” As you walk off, you started to think how is this possible. What is COPD and can anyone get it? After reading this paper you understand the diagnosis, treatment of COPD, pathophysiology of COPD. What is COPD? COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a chronic lung disease that makes it hard to breath. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease changes patient’s everyday lifestyles.
Are treatment of COPD treatable? …show more content…

According to COPD Foundation, “Most cases of COPD are caused by inhaling pollutants; that includes smoking (cigarettes, pipes, cigars, etc.), and second-hand smoke. Fumes, chemicals and dust found in many work environments are contributing factors for many individuals who develop COPD. Genetics can also play a role in an individual’s development of COPD—even if the person has never smoked or has ever been exposed to strong lung irritants in the workplace.” They would think they just have a common cold not knowing the development of COPD. Many people may not know some of the symptoms such shortness of breath and constant coughing. As the cough and shortness of breath continue the doctor will order a pulmonary function test and a chest x-ray. The pulmonary function test is a procedure that shows the amount of air that is breathe in and out and the way the lungs deliver oxygen to the body. A chest x-ray is order to show if exist of emphysema which is one of the main causes of COPD and can eliminate all other lung problems or heart problems. Checking for emphysema is important the alveoli in the lungs will be over inflated which constriction in lung function. In x-rays emphysema easily seen if the patient smokes or has long- term exposure to certain industrial dust or pollutants. Most COPD patients suffer from anxiety, depression or

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