COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a chronic lung disease marked by consecutive fits of cough and wheezing. This disease causes lung inflation resulting in breathing difficulty and production of sputum. COPD is usually caused by irritable gases and chemicals and smoke. Not that this disease is rare in today’s time, many think that way and there are several myths associated with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease which not entirely true.
Myth # 1: It Is Always Caused By Smoke
No doubt smoke is one of the triggers and basic causes of COPD, it is definitely not the sole reason why people suffer from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Also, not every person who suffers from COPD is or has been a smoker in their life. It could also be caused by the environmental factors being a contributor towards fanning the disease.
Myth # 2: COPD and Asthma are the Same
Although the symptoms of both, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Asthma are somewhat similar, these two are definitely not the same diseases and require proper diagnosis and medication each. The symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and short breath are same as those of Asthma, they are not instantly triggered by the allergens.
Myth # 3: Exercise Would Worsen the Symptoms
Many people think that exercising would worsen the symptoms of COPD by increasing fits of cough and shortness of breath. In Actual, regular exercise regimen not only keeps the patients’ health intact, it also provides greater tolerance level for prolonged physical activity in day to day course of life. Exercise also helps a person build immunity towards different infections prevalent in the environment.
Myth #4: The Only Symptom is Shortness of Breath
It is in many cases the first symptom but mostly it’s just the beginning and not the sole symptom. COPD patients also suffer from chest tightening, coughing and loud wheezing along with frequently catching cold and being under the attack of pneumonia or flu.
Myth #5: There’s No Cure for COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is not a death sentence, it has its gravity for the patients but that doesn’t mean it is not treatable; it is. However, the damage that has been done to the lungs cannot be reversed; medicines and proper care can avoid worsening of the condition. Oxygen therapy also helps and is commonly used for COPD patients.
Myth # 6: Only Old People Are Diagnosed with COPD
Often people are diagnosed with symptoms of COPD in later stage of their lives, it is not important that that’s the only time they could get COPD. Also, these diagnoses are usually late and not much can be done to reverse the condition to a normal one after the symptoms are apparent.
Myth # 7: COPD Patients Should Opt For Bed rest
This actually works against the health interest of the COPD patient. It is advisable to avoid sitting or lying down most of the time and allow muscles to receive oxygen by not being idle for most of the time which would eventually weaken them.
Medication and care is a crucial step in treatment for COPD, but some people are unable to manage it. The Rx Helper provides COPD assistance to individuals with simple steps to follow so they could lead a healthy life with less financial burden on their shoulders.
