Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common and growing problem worldwide. Although frequently linked with poverty and poor living conditions, there is strong genetic basis to the disease and chronic exposure to environmental toxins and irritants, such as cigarette smoking. Inhaled beta-agonists and anti-muscarinic bronchodilators form the basis of both acute and chronic therapeutic treatment, with inhaled corticosteroids to boost their effectiveness and reduce the chronic inflammation. Smoking is the most important preventable risk factor for exacerbation and continued pulmonary deterioration. Patients should be biochemically tested to verify their self-reported smoking status and given in-house and specialist smoking cessation advice and counselling. This should be part of the rehabilitation process, which includes exercise training, education, nutritional intervention, and psychosocial support to improve the efficacy of pharmaceutical treatment and to enhance physical and mental wellbeing.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call