Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

Definition

COPD is a obstructive lung disease characterized by long-term breathing problems and poor airflow.

Causes

•               Cigarette smoking

•               Indoor air pollution

•               Exposure to fumes from burning wood

•               Chronic respiratory infections

•               Allergy autoimmunity

•               Occupational exposure

•               Hereditary and genetic factors

•               Alpha-antitrypsin deficiency

Signs and Symptoms

•               Dyspnea Shortness of breath,

•               Chronic coughing,

•               Wheezing,

•               Chest tightness

•               Production of thick, gelatinus sputum

•               Acute or chronic reparatory failure,

•               Weight loss,

•               Respiratory insufficiency,

•               Tachypnea, Fatigue, Peripheral edema

Diagnosis

•               Lung (pulmonary) function tests

•               Spirometry

•               Chest X-ray

•               CT scan

•               Arterial blood gas analysis

Medical Management

•               Inhaled Bronchodilators

•               Anticololinergic

•               Antibiotics

•               Corticosteroids nebulization

•               Methylxanthines

•               Digitalis – to treat LVF, if present

•               Mucolytics eg: potassium iodide, guaifenesin

•               Immunization

•               Oxygen therapy

•               Chest physiotherapy

Surgical management

•               Lung volume reduction surgery

•               Lung transplantation

Prevention

•               Avoid cigarette smoking and other inhaler irritants.

•               Control of environmental temperature and humidity

•               Proper nutrition and adequate hydration

•               Pneumococcal vaccination

Nursing management:

•               Eliminate pulmonary irritants like cigarette smoking

•               Train and monitor patients inhaler using techniques

•               Restrict sodium

•               Encourage relaxation exercises

Complications

•               Respiratory infection.

•               Respiratory failure

•               Right side heart failure

•               Pneumonia.

•               Depression