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Are You at Risk of COPD?

Published: Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Lung Function Screenings to Help Early Identification of COPD


Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a lung disease that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is the fourth leading cause of death in America. The U.S. COPD Coalition reports that Tennessee is one of the states experiencing high death rates from COPD.

“COPD claims the lives of more than 120,000 Americans every year,” said Dr. James Shamiyeh, a University of Tennessee Medical Center pulmonologist. “Smoking is the primary risk factor for COPD, but several other environmental and hereditary factors also can put someone at risk. There are so many people out there who don’t even realize they suffer from COPD and, therefore, aren’t being treated for it. I’d strongly encourage everyone to take advantage of screenings and call their doctor.”

COPD is a lung disease in which the lungs are damaged and airways are partly obstructed, making it difficult to breathe. More than half of those who suffer from COPD say their condition limits their ability to work, according to a recent report by the American Lung Association. Many also report their COPD limits normal physical exertion, family activities, sleeping, household chores and social activities.

COPD symptoms include the following.

• Shortness of breath persisting for months to years
• Wheezing
• Decreased exercise tolerance
• Coughing with or without phlegm
• Chest tightness

 

In addition to smoking, Dr. Shamiyeh says there are several other COPD risk factors.

 

• Heavy exposure to air pollution
• Second-hand smoke
• Long-term exposure to chemical fumes, vapors and dusts
• History of childhood respiratory infections
• Heredity

 

Since COPD develops slowly, it may take several years before people notice symptoms such as shortness of breath.

Some of the symptoms of COPD include the following.

 

• Cough
• Sputum (mucus) production
• Shortness of breath, especially with exercise
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness

 

While there is no cure for COPD and the damage caused to lungs cannot be reversed, there are several treatment options available to slow the damage and help those suffering from COPD feel better.

The pulmonary function tests provided and administered by physicians and staff at UT Medical Center consist of a five question evaluation and a basic spirometry (simple and painless breathing test to gauge how well your lungs work). The spirometry test can detect COPD long before significant symptoms are detected.

Early recognition and treatment are keys to slowing down the progress of COPD. If you smoke, stop immediately. If you suspect you have COPD symptoms, contact your doctor right away. Call 1.877.UT.CARES (1.877.882.2737) to request an appointment.

Click here for more information about lung diseases, tests and services at the Heart Lung Vascular Institute.