COPD Specialist Doctor in Kolkata on Early Warning Signs of COPD

Back in 2019, COPD was estimated to be the sixth leading cause of death. This lung condition affects the air passages and the air sacs like the trachea, bronchi, and alveoli. These parts of the lung get inflamed and thickened as the disease progresses.

Moreover, there may be a build-up of mucus in the airways, while the walls between alveoli get destroyed. Finally, the airways and the alveoli lose their elasticity causing hyperinflation of the lungs.

As of now, COPD has no cure. Hence, book a consultation with a COPD specialist doctor in Kolkata to monitor the course of the disease and manage it effectively.

Early Warning Signs of COPD

COPD is a disease that starts off mildly. In fact, it is seldom detected at the early stages. It is a progressive disease, which means that the symptoms get worse as time passes. Typically, it is diagnosed in persons who are 40 or older. On that note, let us take a look at some of the early warning signs of the condition.

  • Chronic Cough

Doctors classify any cough that persists for more than 8 weeks as chronic. Coughing happens to be a protective mechanism that tries to remove phlegm or mucus from the lungs or any irritant like tobacco smoke.

COPD specialist doctor in Kolkata

  • Excess Production of Mucus

Mucus is produced in the lungs to keep them moist and capture germs, and irritants. When a person inhales irritants like tobacco smoke, car fumes, perfumes, hairsprays, or dust, the body produces more mucus to get rid of them. Long-term exposure to irritants can cause COPD.

  • Shortness of Breath and Fatigue

A person may feel shortness of breath, which may be another sign of COPD. In the beginning, the shortness of breath may be felt only after physical activity, which causes the person not to exercise further, making them physically unfit. Moreover, since there is difficulty in breathing, it causes the person to feel tired more than usual.

Hence, if any of these conditions persist for a long period of time it is time to see a COPD specialist doctor in Kolkata.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it should be mentioned that those who suspect they have this condition, should ideally consult with a COPD specialist doctor in Kolkata. The doctor may help to slow down the progression of the disease, however, remember that COPD has no cure, nor is it fully reversible. A qualified health professional should be able to correctly diagnose the condition.

As for those who have already been diagnosed with this condition, you should try to prevent the progression of the disease any further. The health professional may order tests such as spirometry, chest X-ray or CT scan, and blood tests to rule out other conditions similar to COPD.