COPD

Well was at the Doctors on Friday just gone and he wasn’t that happy with my breathing so today (Monday) I have been to the local Hospital for a Chest X-Ray.
I am worried as COPD is in my family, has some of you may know my Mum had it and my 2 aunties had it so it’s very much at the front of my mind.

I was born like my mum with a Cleft Palate and Bone problems so the Doctors and Hospital do check me regular for chest problems but this first time I have been with a complaint with my chest.

What is COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease also known as chronic obstructive lung disease,  is the main term used to describe chronic lung diseases that are characterized by progressive limitations of the airflow into and out of the lungs, and increased shortness of breath as the disease progresses.

COPD, an insidious disease which is often first diagnosed after some of the lung capacity is already lost, is usually not fully reversible. It is possible to have early stages of COPD without knowing it.

The common characteristics of COPD are:

Shortness of breath:

breathlessness during normal activities
decreased exercise tolerance

Wheezing:

changes in your breathing

Chronic Cough:

excessive phlegm (mucus) production
morning “smokers cough”

Recurring respiratory infections:

bouts of bronchitis every winter

Prevention is the thing here, YES until recently I was a smoker and enjoyed it, but now I do regret starting, I know I may not have COPD but I could have it later in life so by not smoking I reduce the risk of me getting it, but if I have it then I reduce the risk of it getting hold of me by not smoking.

I could go on and on about COPD but it easier to take a look at this wonderful site Click here

And if you need to help to kick the habit Click here

Remember anyone can have COPD best to be safe than sorry.