What is COPD and How Can Caregiving Help?

Home care agency

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a type of chronic lung disease. Two of the most common forms of COPD include emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

There is currently no known cure for COPD. But with the right diagnosis and treatment, people with COPD can manage their symptoms so they can lead a better quality of life. It may also help reduce the risk of other health conditions, such as lung cancer, heart disease, and other conditions.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of COPD include:

  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest tightness
  • Chronic cough and mucus production which can be white, yellow, clear, or greenish
  • Excess mucus in the lungs that make you have to clear your throat first thing every morning
  • Recurring respiratory infections
  • Cyanosis
  • Lack of energy
  • Swelling in feet, ankles, or legs
  • Weight loss

Causes

Tobacco smoking is one of the leading causes of COPD. Other causes include long-term exposure to secondhand smoke, pollution, and fumes from cooking fire without proper ventilation. People with asthma can also develop COPD over time if they don’t get themselves treated.

Can a Caregiver Help with COPD?

After a COPD diagnosis, it’s normal to feel discouraged and defeated. But don’t let that swallow you up. With proper treatment, medication, and care plan, you can still live a healthy, strong, and happy life-even with COPD. However, it’s important to note that all chronic care for this condition should be prescribed and conducted by a qualified medical professional.

Caregivers allow people with COPD to live as independently and comfortably as possible in their own homes while they undergo treatments. And since home caregivers go to their patient’s home-and not the other way around-it is more convenient for the patient. Additionally, living in a familiar and comfortable environment can improve a person’s mood, willpower, and overall outlook on life and their illness, which can significantly help their fight against the illness.

In-home caregivers offer a wide range of services for people with COPD. Perhaps the two key roles of a home caregiver are helping prepare healthy meals and reminding their patients when it’s time to take their medication. As the illness clouds the mind and life takes over, it’s easy to forget seemingly minute details. It’s the caregiver’s responsibility to make sure that their patient follows and obeys the prescribed care plan.

Having a caregiver by your side can make your fight against COPD more bearable. However, don’t just hire anyone. Make sure to hire someone from a reputable home care agency in Phoenix, such as Alarys Home Care.

/by