How to Start Managing and Reducing the Effects of COPD as a Senior Adult

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a treatable, chronic lung disease that seniors are particularly susceptible to. Years of environmental exposure, smoking tobacco products, and occupational hazards may all be responsible for COPD in senior adults. The list of potential medical complications associated with COPD can seem overwhelming, but you don't have to feel powerless against it. Good habits, practiced daily, will help manage and reduce the effects of COPD.

COPD: Common Causes and Symptoms

COPD is most commonly caused by smoking cigarettes, but other environmental factors may also contribute. The inflammation of the lungs caused by COPD is a combination of two diseases: bronchitis and emphysema. COPD narrows the airways, leading to difficulty breathing, persistent cough, frequent congestion, and wheezing.

Effects on Senior Citizens

It can be hard for seniors with COPD to complete daily tasks and activities. Reduced energy levels, difficulty breathing, and congestion all lead to reduced physical capacity. Other effects include depression and anxiety, often from feelings of helplessness, lack of sleep from breathing disruptions, or inability to continue physical activities.

Managing and Reducing the Effects of COPD

It is vital to follow instructions from a doctor or medical professional to manage the symptoms and effects of COPD. Take medications as prescribed. Inhalers are the most common form of prescription drug used to treat COPD, and a doctor will often prescribe an inhaler to manage your specific symptoms. These drugs may reduce mucus production or improve breathing.

There are also proactive measures you can take in order to manage and reduce the effects of COPD. For seniors with COPD, low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and yoga can be particularly effective at increasing lung capacity and alleviating symptoms like shortness of breath. Regular physical activity may be accompanied by breathing exercises to help maintain core strength. Consult a doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.

Staying away from smoke, dust, and other potential irritants is important to reduce the risk of exacerbating COPD symptoms. Seniors should avoid smoking or being around people who smoke and wear protective masks if doing any kind of outdoor work that might expose them to air pollution or smoke.

Finally, stay up to date with vaccinations for COVID-19 and the flu. Keeping these shots up to date will help protect against viral illnesses that may exacerbate COPD symptoms.

Recent Medical Breakthroughs

In recent years, new drugs, breathing therapies, and even new surgery techniques have all been shown to help manage COPD. These new approaches may not be right for everyone, but medical breakthroughs have shown that treating COPD can be customized for each individual to great effect. Research to find new ways of treating COPD continues today.

Senior Helpers Provides Compassionate Care for Seniors With COPD

Seniors living with COPD can take proactive steps to manage and reduce the effects of this disease. If your senior loved one lives in the Laurel, Waynesboro, Collins, Poplarville, Wiggins, Sumrall, Ellisville, New Augusta, or Hattiesburg area, contact Senior Helpers Hattiesburg. Our trained caregivers can assist with a variety of personalized services to help seniors living with COPD. Contact us today to learn more.