What is COPD and How Does it Affect People
Find out more about COPD, its symptoms, how the condition can be managed & how homecare can help
Published: 14/01/2024
What is COPD?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory condition that, according the NHS, affects 1.2 million people in the UK. COPD encompasses a group of lung diseases, primarily chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and is characterised by persistent airflow limitations. It is a chronic and irreversible condition and it will worsen over time.
What Causes COPD?
COPD is a usually caused by long-term damage to the lungs from irritating gases or particulate matter. The main cause of COPD is cigarette smoking. There are other potential causes too, such as exposure to dust and chemicals from your occupation, as well as genetic predisposition. Over time, these irritants cause inflammation in the airways and damage to the lung tissue, leading to a reduced ability to effectively exhale air.
What are its symptoms?
The symptoms typically develop slowly and people often don't discover they have COPD until the condition has significantly progressed. Common symptoms include a long-lasting cough, being short of breath easily, e.g. when you do everyday things such as going for a walk, wheezing, and chest tightness. People with COPD may also experience respiratory infections, tiredness, and unintentional weight loss. As the disease progresses, daily activities become more challenging due to the impaired lung function.
How is it treated?
COPD is an incurable condition, however, effective treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals affected by the condition. Treatment strategies aim to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and slow down the progression of the disease. Stopping smoking is an obvious recommendation as it can prevent further lung damage. Medications, such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids, are prescribed to alleviate symptoms and reduce inflammation.
Pulmonary rehabilitation programmes are core components of COPD management, incorporating exercise, education, and support to enhance physical and emotional well-being. In severe cases, supplemental oxygen therapy may be recommended to improve oxygen levels in the blood. For some patients, surgical interventions like lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplantation may be considered.
COPD is a common and serious respiratory condition that requires comprehensive management. Early detection, lifestyle changes, and prescribed treatments can help people with COPD to lead fulfilling lives, despite the challenges posed by the disease.
How Homecare from Right at Home Could Help
COPD changes the way someone lives and is cared for. Spaces take on new meanings because people with COPD often spend more time inside. For a person with COPD, homecare can allow them to stay in the comfort of their home, receiving crucial support and reducing any symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Right at Home Stevenage, Letchworth and Hitchin provides various homecare services across Stevenage and North Hertfordshire areas. We can help support someone living with COPD with:
- Household tasks
- Personal Care
- Companionship
- Support going out into the community (see support groups below)
- Appointments and errands
- Rehabilitation exercises and support
- Respite Care for family
Our Approach & Our Ethos
We are a private client homecare provider that invests time to get to know you and your family when planning our support packages. We usually have longer call times so that the team can build up a trusting and lasting relationship with our Clients.
We provide person-centred care by creating bespoke care services tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each individual.
Caregivers are chosen not only for their skills but also for their compassion and empathy.
Local and Online Support Groups
Luton & District Asthma + Lung UK Support Group - this group meets on the 2nd Thursday of the month. Contact b.gardner@nhs.net or phone 01582 718875.
Bishop's Stortford Breathe Easy support group - this group meets on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Contact simon.barfoot@eastherts.gov.uk or phone 01992 531471.
Luton Singing for Lung Health - this group meets on Mondays at 2pm. Contact helen.owen14@nhs.net or phone 07514 720995.
Online Zoom Meeting every 2nd Thursday of the month at 12 noon. You'll meet other people with COPD and be able to chat about your condition, as well as hear from a range of great speakers. Register Here. Further support online can be found at the Asthma + Lung UK. Click Here.
Further Information
Our CareGivers are willing and able to take you to these groups or assist with online meetings. If you would like more information on how Right at Home Stevenage, Letchworth and Hitchin can support you or your loved one, don't hesitate to call us on 01462 559159 or you can request a callback.
