URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/copd.html
Show
COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a group of lung diseases that make it hard to breathe and get worse over time. Normally, the airways and air sacs in your lungs are elastic or stretchy. When you breathe in, the airways bring air to the air sacs. The air sacs fill up with air, like a small balloon. When you breathe out, the air sacs deflate, and the air goes out. If you have COPD, less air flows in and out of your airways because of one or more problems: COPD includes two main types: Most people with COPD have both emphysema and chronic bronchitis, but how severe each type is can be different from person to person. The cause of COPD is usually long-term exposure to irritants that damage your lungs and airways. In the United States, cigarette smoke is the main cause. Pipe, cigar, and other types of tobacco smoke can also cause COPD, especially if you inhale them. Exposure to other inhaled irritants can contribute to COPD. These include secondhand smoke, air pollution, and chemical fumes or dusts from the environment or workplace. Rarely, a genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can play a role in causing COPD. The risk factors for COPD include: At first, you may have no symptoms or only mild symptoms. As the disease gets worse, your symptoms usually become more severe. They can include: Some people with COPD get frequent respiratory infections such as colds and the flu. In severe cases, COPD can cause weight loss, weakness in your lower muscles, and swelling in your ankles, feet, or legs. Your health care provider may use many tools to make a diagnosis:
Your doctor will diagnose COPD based on your signs and symptoms, your medical and family histories, and test results. What are the treatments for COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)?There is no cure for COPD. However, treatments can help with symptoms, slow the progress of the disease, and improve your ability to stay active. There are also treatments to prevent or treat complications of the disease. Treatments include:
If you have COPD, it's important to know when and where to get help for your symptoms. You should get emergency care if you have severe symptoms, such as trouble catching your breath or talking. Call your health care provider if your symptoms are getting worse or if you have signs of an infection, such as a fever. Can COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) be prevented?Since smoking causes most cases of COPD, the best way to prevent it is to not smoke. It's also important to try to avoid lung irritants such as secondhand smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes, and dusts. NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. Learn how to cite this page
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term that also includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD causes the airways of the lungs to become narrow due to inflammation, mucus, or other damage. This affects the ability to breathe normally and often results in shortness of breath, especially on exertion. COPD often occurs from smoking and long-term inhalation of fumes or pollution. Second-hand smoke exposure can be a contributing factor and comorbidities such as asthma also increase the risk. COPD is a progressive disease that is treatable and controllable but cannot be cured. Exacerbations or flare-ups cause the most harm, as this is when there is an increase in symptoms that require prompt treatment and often inpatient care. The Nursing ProcessCOPD is a common condition nurses will encounter in treating patients. It is often complicated by other comorbidities such as asthma, pneumonia, and heart failure. Nurses will most likely care for patients who are experiencing an exacerbation and must be vigilant in monitoring their respiratory status and administering antibiotics and steroids. Nurses can use these opportunities to educate patients on the importance of quitting smoking, increasing their exercise tolerance, and instructing on medication adherence to prevent future exacerbations. Ineffective Breathing Pattern Care PlanThe cardinal symptom of COPD is shortness of breath from airflow obstruction. It can be frightening for patients and requires prompt assessment and intervention. Nursing Diagnosis: Ineffective Breathing Pattern
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Ineffective Breathing Pattern Assessment1. Auscultate breath sounds and vital signs. 2. Note the type of breathing pattern. 3. Assess ABGs. Ineffective Breathing Pattern Interventions1. Decrease anxiety. 2. Administer medications. 3. Apply oxygen. 4. Instruct on pursed-lip breathing. Activity Intolerance Care PlanAs COPD worsens, participating in physical activities may become more challenging. Patients often experience exercise intolerance due to dyspnea which negatively affects their strength and quality of life. Nursing Diagnosis: Activity Intolerance
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Activity Intolerance Assessment1. Evaluate current activity level. 2. Assess emotional factors affecting activity. 3. Monitor cardiopulmonary response. Activity Intolerance Interventions1. Teach conservation techniques. 2. Keep track of physical activity. 3. Instruct on diaphragmatic breathing. 4. Educate on medications to improve tolerance. Deficient Knowledge Care PlanA lack of knowledge related to the contributing factors, pathophysiology, symptoms, and treatments of COPD can lead to poor choices and worsening health outcomes. Nursing Diagnosis: Deficient Knowledge
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Deficient Knowledge Assessment1. Assess how the patient learns best. 2. Assess readiness and motivation. 3. Assess for a support system. Deficient Knowledge Interventions1. Instruct on how to prevent and recognize exacerbations. 2. Educate on hygiene practices. 3. Recommend pulmonary rehab. 4. Quit smoking. References and Sources
|