COPD includes two conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. In patients with emphysema, the walls of the air sacs in the lungs are damaged. In chronic bronchitis, linings of the airways are always irritated, inflamed and swollen. Some patients with COPD may even have both.

The most common symptoms are chronic cough, shortness of breath, mucus, wheezing and tightness in the chest. They get worse over time without treatment.

Diagnosing COPD (Obstructed Airflow)

We have multiple methods available on-site to determine quickly why airflow is obstructed and how severe the condition is. In addition to physical exam and medical history, you may also receive:

• Spirometry: This is a very accurate tool to diagnose COPD. Spirometry measures how deeply you can breathe and how fast air moves into and out of your lungs.
• Chest X-ray and computed tomography: Our team may also take pictures of your lungs with X-rays or CT scans to determine the extent and severity of your disease.
• Blood tests: Arterial blood gas analysis can measure how much oxygen and carbon dioxide are in your blood. A high level of carbon dioxide can be a sign of poor lung function.
• Pulse oximetry: This painless procedure measures the amount of oxygen in your blood. It may be used throughout your care to check lung function over time.

Every patient with COPD is different. Our pulmonologists will individualize your treatment plan to help you:

• Breathe better
• Reduce flare-ups
• Complete essential activities of daily living
• Participate in activities you enjoy

Your care may include:

• Respiratory therapy: At our on-site Pulmonary Rehab and Fitness Center, a respiratory therapist will show you how to control COPD symptoms. You’ll learn breathing techniques, strategies to avoid flare-ups, safe ways to exercise with COPD, nutrition tips and smoking cessation.
• Supplemental oxygen: Your pulmonologist will teach you how to use oxygen therapy to help you breathe easier. You’ll wear a mask or a thin tube with prongs that rest inside your nose. A tank of air will gently pump oxygen into the mask or through the tubes, so your lungs don’t have to work so hard.
• Medications: Medications for COPD can alleviate your symptoms and prevent flare-ups, but treatment must be individualized. Our team will evaluate you and consider a wide variety of options, such as short-term bronchodilators, long-term bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antibiotics and more.
• Vaccines: Infections can cause COPD flare-ups — making symptoms worse and reducing quality of life. Our team will make sure you are up to date on your vaccinations.
• Referrals for surgery: For severe cases of COPD, surgery may be necessary (for example, bullectomy or lung transplantation). We partner with surgical specialists within Memorial Healthcare System and beyond to provide you surgical care when necessary.