Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a growing epidemic, affecting 1 in 4 Americans over the age of 45. A serious lung disease that often goes undiagnosed, COPD is the 4th leading cause of death and 2nd leading cause of disability in the U.S.
Although COPD has readily recognizable symptoms, about 12 million Americans may have COPD but not realize it. Proper diagnosis and treatment can enhance and prolong life.
A new research involving patient of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) found that tiotropium therapy (a drug that stops the nerve reaction that blocks the breathing route) can improve the lung function and thus improving the quality of life for its patients.
A study called UPLIFT (Understanding Potential Long-term Impacts on Function with Tiotropium) has been carried out involving 5,993 patients in 37 countries around the world.
COPD usually happens because of the commitment to smoking habit for too long. It is marked by symptoms such as frequent coughing, increase of slime or sputum, frequent suffocation especially if exercising, tight chest feeling and often having respiratory infections.
COPD cannot be cured but can be prevented by quitting smoking or not smoking at all. Today’s available treatments of COPD are meant for controlling and preventing worse lung damages only.
