The HEALTH : February 2019 | Page 22

22 22 The Health | february, 2019 men Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) When breathing becomes a struggle flickr.com B A Normal Lungs The illustration shows a normal lungs and a lungs with COPD. B reathing. For the most part, it’s some- thing we do without thinking. But for the half a million Malaysians estimated to be living with COPD , this simple act is a daily struggle, one which is a barrier to all that life has to offer. COPD is a progressive lung condition that limits airflow in the lungs, causing a person to feel out of breath. Typically caused by long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke that damage the lungs and the airways, other symptoms also include frequent coughing (with or without mucus), wheezing and experiencing a sensation of tightness in the chest . Datuk Dr Aziah Ahmad Mahayiddin. There is currently no cure for COPD, and whilst the early symptoms may be subtle and pass by unnoticed, COPD can have fatal consequences if it is not properly managed. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstruc- tive Lung Disease (GOLD) predicts that COPD will be the third leading cause of death by 2020. Lung Foundation of Malaysia Trustee, Datuk Dr Aziah Ahmad Mahayiddin disclosed that the nature and severity of symptoms presented in COPD is influenced by a range of factors, including exposure to cigarette smoke, viruses and air pollution, making every patient’s journey of COPD unique. “As a result, a ‘one size fits all’ approach to disease management doesn’t necessarily work, as sufferers may have different treatment needs that can change over time. Unfortunately, COPD is underdiagnosed and undermanaged. Progression of the condition can be delayed with prompt diagnosis, proper assessment of disease severity and appropriate management.” In addition to the respiratory symptoms, COPD is associated with an array of comorbidities such as skeletal muscle dysfunction, systemic inflammation, and cardiovascular problems that can severely impact sufferers’ quality of life. Patients with COPD may also show a loss of appetite as a result of their breathing difficulties, with 25 per cent to 40 per cent of suf- ferers estimated to be in an undernourished state. Unaddressed, these symptoms can often result in depression and social isolation. As a result, a ‘one size fits all’ approach to disease management doesn’t necessarily work, as sufferers may have different treatment needs that can change over time. Unfortunately, COPD is underdiagnosed and undermanaged. Progression of the condition can be delayed with prompt diagnosis, proper assessment of disease severity and appropriate management.” – Datuk Dr Aziah Embracing an active lifestyle President of the Malaysian Thoracic Society Associate Professor Pang Yong Kek pointed to quit smoking as the most important step in COPD management, as this will prevent further decline of lung function. In addition to medication, patients should embrace an active lifestyle, take a well-balanced diet, exercise regularly and get enough rest in between their activi- ties. For those with reduced effort tolerance – the decreased ability to exercise – they may be referred to attend a pulmonary rehabilitation programme, where they will be taught effective breathing techniques and customised exercises, tailored to their capabilities. Taking precautions against the risk factors of COPD can help to slow the progression of the disease and improve lung function. Flu and pneumonia can Pang Yong Kek. Blood in the urine Lungs with COPD B lood in the urine can be either frank bleeding, that means visible to the naked eyes, or microscopic, or bleeding so little that it is only detected on the laboratory test. Prince Court Medical Centre Con- sultant Urologist Dr Goh Eng Hong explained that although it could be many causes in origin, such as infec- tion or trauma, blood in urine is chiefly associated with tumour, such as kidney or bladder cancer. “Tumour tends to occur in the elderly have serious complications for COPD patients, thus vaccination against these diseases can help protect individuals against infection. Additionally, avoiding fumes, odours and other lung irritants may prevent further flare-ups. By making sure they receive enough sleep and rest throughout the day, individuals suffer- ing from COPD can also maintain their energy levels throughout their daily activities. — The Health Verywell Health age groups especially when there is pre- vious long-term exposure to chemicals or smoking.” Symptoms can be bleeding alone, or associated with other features such as pain and difficulty in urination. According to Goh, managing these cases require at the beginning to assess whether the bleeding is profuse and hence the necessity to arrest the bleed- ing first. Only then the exact treatment is carried out for the underlying cause. — The Health Blood in urine is chiefly associated with kidney or bladder cancer.