Michael W. Nash, MD Family Medicine Clinton County Rural Health Clinic Understanding COPD

COPD Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease A.K.A “Emphysema” or “Chronic Bronchitis” Most common cause is smoking Other causes such as Alpha-1 Antitrypsin

The Lungs

COPD

COPD vs ASTHMA

Diagnosis: Chronic cough, sputum Shortness of breath, especially with exertion Wheezing Pursing of lips Common cold hits you harder History of smoking

Diagnosis: Spirometry (Pulmonary Function Testing) Chest x-ray, CAT scan suggestive Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Pulse Oximetry Testing (resting vs. exertion)

Treatment: - Harder to treat than asthma - Rescue Inhalers - Albuterol, Ipratropium, Levalbuterol - Nebulizers - Maintenance Inhalers - Steroids, Salmeterol, Tiotropium - Medications - Prednisone, Theophylline - Oxygen - More advanced disease, meet certain qualifications

Treatment:

Exacerbations Colds, bronchitis, pneumonia often hits harder Usually requires antibiotics, steroids, increased use of rescue medications Sometimes requires hospitalization Bi-Pap Mechanical Ventilation

Other Considerations: - Influenza Vaccination yearly - Pneumococcal Vaccination - Every 5 years until age 65, then one thereafter - Staying as active as possible - Consultation with a pulmonologist - Good nutrition - Advanced Directives

Here in Breese: Testing: PFT, ABG, CXR, CT, Pulse Oximetry Pulmonary Rehabilitation Primary Care Physicians trained in tobacco cessation Three Board Certified Pulmonologists Flu and Pneumococcal vaccinations HealthPlex Resources for Nutrition and Advanced Directives