COPD
If you have difficulty breathing or experience respiratory infections, you could be suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Board-certified internist Chimezie Amanambu, MD, at Pax Internal Medicine Associates in Akron, Ohio, has the expertise to manage your COPD symptoms. To learn more, call the practice or use the online booking tool to book an appointment today.
What is COPD?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a collective term for several lung diseases, such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema, that block your airflow from going in and out of your lungs. COPD can make it very difficult to breathe.
What are the symptoms of COPD?
COPD symptoms can increase over time as the disease advances. Signs of COPD include:
- Chronic coughing
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Tightness in your chest
- Mucus production
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Swollen feet
- Weight loss
If you have these symptoms, see Dr. Amanambu as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes COPD?
The main causes of COPD include smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke. Air pollution, dust, and chemicals can play a role in its development, as well.
Although rare, some may suffer from COPD due to genetic history.
How is COPD Diagnosed?
Dr. Amanambu uses a spirometry test to determine the health of your lungs. It measures the amount of air you can inhale and exhale and how quickly you can perform this task.
He may use a chest X-ray or CT scan if he suspects a condition, such as emphysema. The team might also use laboratory tests to learn what’s causing your symptoms.
How is COPD Treated?
COPD doesn’t have a cure, but treatment can offer relief for your symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Dr. Amanambu and the team at Pax Internal Medicine Associates recommend a range of treatments depending on the severity of your COPD and its causes, including:
Quitting smoking
Smoking is the most common cause of COPD. If you quit, you can stop your symptoms from getting worse.
Medication
Prescribed medications that come in inhalers can relax the muscles around your airways and help you breathe.
Lung Therapy
This method of treatment helps you maintain a steady flow of oxygen into your bloodstream.
Surgery
For severe COPD, Dr. Amanambu may recommend surgery that includes removing diseased lung tissue, removing large air spaces formed in your lungs, or performing a lung transplant.
As an internist, Dr. Amanambu uses his expertise to develop the right plan of care for your COPD. He and the team at Pax Internal Medicine Associates help you manage your treatment, giving you long-term, successful results.
To start your customized COPD treatment plan, call the office to schedule an appointment or use the convenient online book tool today.