Written By: Pavitra Sampath | Published : November 20, 2014 4:09 PM IST
COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a chronic lung condition that includes both bronchitis and emphysema. The condition gets progressively worse and has three stages. Common symptoms of COPD include persistent cough with the expulsion of phlegm and difficulty in breathing.
According to statistics by the American Lung Association, COPD affects a large number of people the world over and is the third leading cause of death in the US. Incidentally, India is only second to China in its contribution to the number of deaths due to COPD [1]. While the onset of the disease is mainly thought to be due to cigarette smoking, there are other causes for concern and experts opine that this condition is better treated when caught early. But we believe prevention is better than cure, here are 5 ways to prevent the onset of COPD.
1. Quit smoking: According to a study published in the Journal of Thoracic Disease, smoking is one of the leading causes of COPD. Not only do the ingredients of a cigarette affect a person's lungs leadng to emphysema and asthma, bronchitis, etc. but also affects blood vessels making them narrow and therefore less capable of transporting oxygen to the rest of the body. Therefore, it is best that you quit smoking or do not start in order to keep this condition at bay. Here are a few ways you can quit smoking.
2. Stay protected from polluted air: Pollution is another leading cause of COPD. Not only does polluted air worsen the symptoms of COPD but too much exposure to pollutants can trigger the onset of the disease. A good way to protect yourself is to wear a protective mask while in areas that have a lot of dust, smoke, second hand smoke and other pollutants. Dusting your home and avoiding strong smelling room fresheners is also a good way to keep indoor air fresh and pollutant free.
3. Exercise regularly: Exercise is great for your health. It not only helps you lose weight and stay healthy but also improves your lung function, improves your immunity and reduces stress levels. Apart from all that it is also a great way to keep COPD at bay since it helps keep your lungs healthy and free of any infections. According to experts, 30-45 minutes of exercise a day is more than enough to keep you healthy. Here are is why exercising is important for your all round health.
4. Eat healthy: A healthy diet that includes all the food groups is essential for a disease free life. To prevent COPD eating foods that give your immune system a boost is ideal since infections of the lungs increase your chances of suffering from the disease. Apart from that eating healthy also keeps your weight in check. Being overweight puts a lot of pressure on your lungs and heart increasing your chances of suffering from COPD. In the same vein, being underweight makes you more prone to infections and related ailments.
5. Get vaccinated and prevent infections: If you suffer from COPD you are at a greater risk of suffering from common infections of the lungs. These infections often become far worse and can quickly progress to pneumonia that can be life threatening. On the flip side, frequent lung infections also make you more prone to COPD. Therefore getting vaccinated against the flu and influenza is essential. If you do suffer from COPD you may have to take these vacines once every year. Apart from vaccines steering clear of infections is also another way to prevent the onset of the disease. Following proper sanitary measures (like washing your hands well after contact with dirty objects, covering your mouth when you cough, etc.), avoiding crowded places and wearing protective gear like a face mask when in public can all help keep COPD at bay.
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References
[1] Bhome, A. B. (2012). COPD in India: Iceberg or volcano? Journal of Thoracic Disease, 4(3), 298 309. doi:10.3978/j.issn.2072-1439.2012.03.15
[2] National Heart, lung and blood institute
[3] American Lung Association
[4] PROactive COPD
