Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that leads to obstructed airflow from the lungs.
This condition can worsen over time and is often caused by long-term exposure to irritants that damage the lungs, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and chemical fumes. However, there are some surprising factors that can worsen COPD symptoms, including:.
High Altitude
High altitude can affect those with lung disease, including COPD. With less oxygen in the air, people with COPD may find it harder to breathe and experience shortness of breath and fatigue.
Cold Weather
Cold weather can make it harder to breathe, especially for people with COPD. Cold air can irritate the airways and cause wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
If you have COPD, it’s important to keep warm during cold weather and wear a scarf or mask over your mouth and nose to help warm the air before you breathe it in.
Emotional Stress
Emotional stress can trigger COPD symptoms in some people. Stress can cause breathing difficulties, chest tightness, and coughing, which can exacerbate COPD symptoms.
Strategies such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and other stress-reducing techniques may help to manage stress related to COPD.
GERD and Acid Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD can make COPD symptoms worse. This is because acid from the stomach can irritate the lungs and cause inflammation, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
If you have COPD and GERD, it’s important to talk to your doctor about treating both conditions.
Infections
Infections such as the flu and pneumonia can trigger COPD symptoms and lead to respiratory failure in some cases. People with COPD are more vulnerable to infections because their lungs are less able to fight off germs.
It’s important for people with COPD to get yearly flu shots and to avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Air Pollution
Air pollution can worsen COPD symptoms, especially if you live in an urban area or near a busy road.
Exposure to air pollutants such as ozone, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide can irritate the lungs and cause inflammation, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality can also affect COPD symptoms. Chemicals from cleaning products, air fresheners, and other household items can irritate the lungs and cause breathing difficulties. Dust mites and pet dander can also trigger COPD symptoms.
To improve indoor air quality, use natural cleaning products, ventilate your home, and consider using an air purifier.
Exercise
Exercise is important for people with COPD, but some people may find it difficult. Exercise can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and muscle weakness, which can worsen COPD symptoms.
However, regular exercise can help to improve lung function, build strength, and improve overall health. It’s important for people with COPD to talk to their doctor about an exercise program that is safe and effective for them.
Narcotics
Narcotics such as codeine, morphine, and oxycodone can make it harder to breathe, especially at high doses. These medications can slow down breathing, leading to respiratory failure in severe cases.
If you have COPD and are prescribed narcotics, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or prescribe a different medication.
Smoking
Smoking is the leading cause of COPD, and quitting smoking is the most important thing you can do to manage your COPD symptoms. Smoking damages the airways and makes it harder to breathe, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
If you smoke, talk to your doctor about quitting strategies such as nicotine replacement therapy or medication.
Overall, it’s important to be aware of the surprising factors that can worsen COPD symptoms.
By taking steps to manage these factors, such as avoiding air pollution, quitting smoking, and improving indoor air quality, you can improve your lung function and manage your COPD symptoms more effectively.
