Treatments for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Although most cases of COPD are preventable, it cannot be cured. Once lung damage occurs, treatment focuses on preventing additional damage, reducing symptoms of the disease, and enhancing the quality of daily activities.

The disability from COPD can cause dramatic changes to your quality of life; treatment of its symptoms, prevention of complications, and progression of the disease require attention to a variety of behaviors. Because of these factors, some people seek out their treatment through a comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program. These programs provide guidance and support as you learn to manage your COPD through medications, good nutrition, appropriate exercise, and good lifestyle choices. These programs work well for some people and may help optimize quality of life.

Treatment involves the following:

• Lifestyle changes

• Medications
• Surgery
• Other treatments
• Alternative and complementary therapies

References:

American Lung Associationwebsite. Available at: http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=22542.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institutewebsite. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/.

Last reviewed January 2007 by David L. Horn, MD, FACP

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.