Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the disease?
WHO has identified the following four components for management of COPD:
Assessment and monitoring
Assessment and monitoring of the disease incorporates the following steps:
Reducing risk factors
Reducing the person's risk factors includes the following measures:
Managing stable COPD
Management of stable COPD includes the following:
WHO recommendations for management of COPD are broken down by the severity of the disease. Following are recommendations for Stage 0 COPD:
Recommendations for Stage I COPD are the same as those for Stage 0. In addition, people with Stage I COPD should use short-acting bronchodilators as needed. Bronchodilators relieve cough and shortness of breath by opening the airways. In general, WHO recommends inhaled bronchodilators rather than oral medications.
Recommendations of Stage II COPD include the recommendations from Stage I. Additional measures are recommended for times when symptoms are present, including the following:
WHO gives the following recommendations for Stage III COPD:
Managing exacerbations
People with COPD may have worsening, or exacerbation, of symptoms when they develop a respiratory infection. Symptoms may also be worsened by cigarette smoke, as well as other factors. WHO guidelines for management of exacerbations include the following:
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Bronchodilators may cause an increased heart rate and blood pressure. Oral glucocorticosteroids can cause increased risk for infection, high blood sugar, and osteoporosis. Antibiotics can cause rash, stomach upset, and allergic reaction.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
Early diagnosis of COPD and effective treatment can slow its progression. People who eliminate risk factors and follow treatment guidelines have better outcomes. Those who continue to smoke may be increasingly disabled by breathing problems and complications of COPD.
How is the disease monitored?
COPD is monitored through regular visits with the healthcare provider. Lung function tests can be used to monitor limitations in airflow. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.