Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), also known as COPD, is a condition in which the airways of the lungs are damaged, making it increasingly difficult for air to get in and out of the lungs.
There are two main types of damage to copd:
The air passages in the lungs become scarred and narrow.
The alveoli of the lungs, where oxygen is absorbed into the blood and carbon dioxide is excreted, can become damaged.
In addition, copd is usually associated with inflammation of the respiratory tract, which can lead to coughing and the production of sputum (sputum).
When the damage is severe, it can be difficult to get enough oxygen into the blood stream and to pump out excess carbon dioxide.These changes can lead to shortness of breath and other symptoms.
Unfortunately, the symptoms of copd cannot be completely eliminated by treatment, and the disease usually worsens over time.However, treatment can control symptoms and sometimes slow the progression of the disease.
This article discusses the treatment options for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.Treatment of sudden worsening symptoms often requires hospital treatment, which is not discussed here.Risk factors and diagnosis of copd are also reviewed.
If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you may lose your appetite or feel too tired to prepare and eat.But a regular diet and a healthy diet are important because food:
Provide your body with the energy it needs to function, such as breathing and digestion.
Provide energy for your daily activities.
Helps strengthen your body’s natural defense system (immune system), making it easier to avoid infection.
You can take simple steps to make sure you eat healthy food on a regular basis.But because copd patients often have other health problems that may limit the foods they can eat, be sure to talk to your doctor or registered dietitian before changing your diet.
People with copd often have difficulty preparing food and eating.The following tips can make it easier for you to eat and help you get the necessary nutrients.But if you have other health problems that may limit the foods you can eat, talk to your doctor or registered dietitian before changing your diet.
Make eating easier:
Choose foods that are easy to prepare.
Eat in a relaxed atmosphere.
Eat with friends and family.
If you have dinner, try to have it early.This way, you’ll have more energy throughout the day.
Try adding your favorite foods to your diet.
Potassium is important for lung function, so a lack of it can lead to respiratory problems.Try to eat foods high in potassium, such as:
avocado
Dark green leafy vegetable
tomatoes
asparagus
Sugar beet
potatoes
banana
The oranges
Foods rich in potassium are especially useful if your dietitian or doctor prescribes diuretics.
People with copd should drink as much water as possible throughout the day.It is recommended to drink six to eight 8-ounce caffeine-free beverages a day.Adequate hydration thins the mucus and makes it easier to cough.
Limit or avoid caffeine altogether as it interferes with your medication.Caffeinated beverages include coffee, tea, soda and energy drinks such as red bull.
Consult your doctor about alcohol.You may be advised to avoid or limit alcoholic beverages as they may interact with drugs.Alcohol also slows your breathing, making it harder to cough up sputum.
Likewise, if you have a diagnosis of heart disease or copd, talk to your doctor.Sometimes it is necessary for people with heart problems to limit their fluid intake.
Try eating five to six small meals a day instead of three large ones.Eating fewer and more meals can help you avoid filling up, give your lungs room to expand, and make breathing easier.
Choose foods that are quick and easy to prepare.This will help you avoid wasting energy.Sit down while you cook so you’re not too tired to eat.If necessary, ask family and friends to help you prepare.
April