COPD is a manageable and treatable disease. Start by talking to your doctor. Then set reasonable goals and make the right lifestyle changes.
Every day is an opportunity to live a healthier, better life. Taking even a few small steps in the right direction now can lead you down a path of healthier living.
Millions of people have COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. In fact, COPD is the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States. COPD is a lung condition that makes it more and more difficult to breathe. Both chronic bronchitis and emphysema are considered part of COPD.
COPD can affect your life as early as your early 40s. Both men and women can get it. Tobacco smoke causes approximately 80% to 90% of all cases of COPD. In fact, a smoker is 10 times more likely to die of COPD than a nonsmoker.
Another cause of COPD is exposure to indoor or outdoor pollutants. If your job exposes you to toxic chemicals and pollutants, you will also have increased odds of developing COPD. A recent study found that an estimated 19.2% of COPD was attributed in part to work-related exposure.
Additionally, COPD can be caused by a rare genetic condition called Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Deficiency.
Here are some things you can do to start taking control of your health: