Progressing in Lung Care this World COPD Day 2024
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition that obstructs airflow, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms include persistent cough, shortness of breath, and frequent respiratory infections, which worsen over time without proper management. World COPD Day is an annual event organised by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) to raise awareness about COPD, improve prevention, and encourage better management of the condition.
Dr. Neetu Jain, Senior Consultant Pulmonology, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, PSRI Hospital highlights the link between air pollution and how it may affect people with COPD. She says, “These days, the talk of the town is the pollution in Delhi, which has been worsening over the past two to three days. The AQI is consistently above 400, and visibility is quite low. Consequently, there has been a significant increase in the number of patients visiting the OPD, with at least a 50% rise in those presenting symptoms related to pollution. Both patients with pre-existing lung diseases and those with no prior history of lung issues are coming to the OPD.
Most of them are suffering from cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Some patients also complain of sore throat, throat pain, generalized fatigue, headaches, and burning eyes. The number of patients in emergency care is also rising, particularly those with asthma or COPD experiencing acute exacerbations. Additionally, there has been an increase in infections, with a few patients presenting with severe pneumonia requiring initial ICU admission. Overall, the health situation is quite dire and worsening by the day.
A common trend this season is a prolonged cough that does not improve with usual medications or antibiotics, with many patients requiring inhalers more frequently. Moreover, patients who previously managed their conditions during pollution episodes are struggling this year. At least three patients, who had been stable for years, have been admitted under my care due to pollution-related symptoms.”
The theme for World COPD Day 2024, observed on November 20th, is “Know Your Lung Function.” This year’s theme emphasises the significance of measuring lung function through spirometry, a key tool for early detection and effective management of COPD. Lifestyle changes can significantly enhance lung health, particularly for individuals with COPD. Read on as we share some tips you can follow for better lung health.
