SEE YOUR DOCTOR
The earlier COPD is detected, the better. Early treatment can slow the progression of COPD, help you to feel healthier, and enable you to go about your regular activities.
It is common to blame shortness of breath on age, but growing older does not make you short of breath. Unfortunately, in many cases by the time a person suffering from COPD seeks medical attention, much of the damage has already been done.
Diagnosis is often made after many lung changes have occurred. Although a definite diagnosis can be difficult, there are a few assessment procedures the doctor may do:
1. Ask you questions about your health history
what is your smoking history?
do you suffer from shortness of breath?
what makes your shortness of breath worse?
do you cough?
do you bring up sputum, and if so, what does it look like?
what is your family history of lung disease?
2. Conduct a spirometry test
This test is a common and effective diagnostic tool that can easily be done in your doctor's office or at a nearby hospital or clinic. You will be asked to blow, as long and hard as you can, into a small tube attached to a machine. The machine measures how long it takes to blow out all the air from your lungs. The more obstructed the airways, the longer it takes to blow the air out. Spirometry is the most reliable method of testing your lungs.
3. Chest x-rays and blood tests may be done.
Chest x-rays can help determine if there is damage to the lungs. A blood test measures the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood.
| Abnormal Lung Anatomy |  |
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Management of COPD |