COPD is an acronym for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. According to the COPD Foundation, “COPD is an umbrella term used to describe lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and refractory (non-reversible) asthma.” November is recognized internationally as COPD Awareness Month. “Throughout the month, the COPD Foundation will partner with respiratory health organizations to host various online and in-person activities that will allow COPD community members to rally, inform, and support one another.”
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reports that 16 million Americans have COPD. The National Institutes of Health’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute explains that causes for COPD typically include long-term exposure to lung irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, or chemical fumes. Signs and symptoms often include:
- Ongoing cough with lots of mucous
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
While there is currently no cure for COPD, there are treatments to alleviate the symptoms and recommended lifestyle changes to slow the progression of the disease. Discuss your treatment options with your healthcare provider. To schedule an appointment at any of our convenient Primary Medical Care Center community clinics, you may visit our website at www.primarymed.com, or call (305)751-1500 for our Miami-Dade clinic, or (954)289-0000 for our Broward clinic.