Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a condition that blocks airflow through the lungs and makes breathing a chore. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are two of the most common forms of COPD. Chronic bronchitis is a condition that causes the lining of the bronchial tubes to become inflamed. Emphysema occurs when the alveoli, which are air sacs located inside of the lungs, become destroyed.
Stop Smoking
Smoking is one of the risk factors for COPD. It can also worsen the cough. That is why one of the best things that you can do to get your COPD cough under control if you are a smoker is to quit smoking. Quitting smoking will not only help reduce your coughing, but it will also help improve your overall quality of life.
Supplemental Oxygen
Many people who have COPD are required to get supplemental oxygen in order to get their condition under control. Supplemental oxygen can be delivered through a tube that fits inside of the nose or a face mask. Supplemental oxygen can be delivered in a home or a hospital. Supplemental oxygen also makes it easier for a person to breathe.
Some people only need to use supplemental oxygen while they are sleeping or performing certain activities. Other people need it all of the time. Keep in mind that supplemental oxygen is the only COPD treatment that can help extend life.
Medications
There are several types of medication that can be used to get COPD under control. One group of medications that doctors often recommend is bronchodilators. They work by helping the muscles inside of the airways relax. There are both short and long-acting bronchodilators.
Short-acting bronchodilators are designed to provide immediate relief. Long-acting bronchodilators are designed to be used every day. Some patients require both short and long-acting bronchodilators.
Surgery
In rare cases, surgery is recommended. Surgery is typically only advised if the person has severe COPD and all other treatments fail. Doctors can surgically remove the damaged lung tissue. A lung transplant is another option. Even though a lung transplant can improve a person’s quality of life, it is important to note that there are significant risks associated with getting a lung transplant. For example, people who get a lung transplant are required to take anti-rejection medications for the rest of their lives.