Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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General health information

COPD

COPD is a lasting lung disease in which air has difficulty flowing out of the lungs. Coughing, phlegm, wheezing, tiredness and increasing breathlessness are common. Stopping smoking, good inhaler technique, activity, vaccinations and a personal action plan may reduce symptoms and flare-ups.

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  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disease with persistent airflow obstruction, usually from damaged airways and air sacs.
  • Common symptoms are breathlessness, chronic cough, phlegm, wheezing, tiredness and recurring flare-ups.
  • Diagnosis requires spirometry after a bronchodilator, a medicine that opens the airways; symptoms or an X-ray alone are insufficient.
  • Stopping smoking is the most effective way to limit further tobacco damage, regardless of age or disease stage.
  • Inhaled medicines, activity, pulmonary rehabilitation, vaccinations, nutrition and an action plan help reduce symptoms and risks.
  • A severe flare-up with exhaustion, drowsiness, blue lips or inability to speak is an emergency: call 912.

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