If you've been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD, you may think that dragging around an oxygen canister is just that, a drag. But that extra oxygen is just what your body needs to prevent the damage caused by oxygen deficiency. When used regularly, supplemental oxygen therapy has been shown to improve both the quality and length of life for those who suffer from severe COPD.
In fact, patients can still reap the benefits of extra oxygen even if they have less severe forms of COPD. And all patients can benefit from respiratory therapy to help them breathe better. Be aware, however, that you should consult your physician before using supplemental oxygen since long-term use of high concentration oxygen can have dangerous effects. Gretchen Lawrence, program associate for the National Lung Health Education Program and fellow of the American Association for Respiratory Care, explains how a little bit of oxygen can provide big relief.
What is COPD?
COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a disease that is characterized primarily by an inability to get air out of the lungs, because they have lost their elastic recoil. Symptoms include chronic cough, excess mucous and exercise-related dyspnea or difficulty breathing.
It's the nation's most rapidly growing health problem-ranking fourth among the most common causes of death in the United States. Unfortunately, it's on the rise.
Copyright 2009 NBC Health
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