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Read MoreYour lungs are vital to your overall health. At Inspira, we develop personalized treatment plans to ease COPD symptoms and improve lung function.
What is COPD?
COPD is a progressive lung condition that encompasses several chronic respiratory diseases, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. With COPD, the airways become obstructed or narrowed, making it increasingly difficult to breathe. Emphysema involves damage to the lungs' alveoli, or air sacs, reducing their elasticity and ability to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream. Chronic bronchitis is characterized by inflammation and excess mucus production in the bronchial tubes, leading to coughing and difficulty clearing the airways.
While COPD is not curable, early diagnosis, treatment and lifestyle adjustments can help you manage this condition, slow its progression and maintain a fulfilling quality of life.
What are COPD’s Symptoms?
Living with COPD means navigating a range of symptoms that can disrupt daily life. Symptoms may include:
- Bluish tint to the lips or fingernails, indicating low oxygen levels
- Chest tightness
- Fatigue
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
- Wheezing
How is COPD Diagnosed?
In most cases, diagnosing COPD involves a thorough physical examination and a pulmonary function test (PFT) to assess lung function. In some cases, your doctor may recommend additional imaging tests like chest X-rays or CT scans. Your doctor will use these tests to evaluate your lung structure, identify abnormalities or damage and assess the extent of lung function impairment. Your doctor can develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs by analyzing these imaging tests alongside clinical findings and PFT results.
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COPD Treatment Options
Medication Management
In conjunction with lifestyle modifications like quitting smoking, medication management plays a vital role in managing COPD symptoms effectively. Our pulmonary specialists prescribe and monitor various medications, including bronchodilators, inhaled steroids and combination inhalers. These medications help alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation and improve lung function.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Inspira offers a comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program that provides education, exercise training, nutritional guidance and counseling to help you effectively manage your symptoms and optimize your lung function.
Zephyr® Valve
The Zephyr Valve is a minimally invasive treatment for severe COPD/emphysema. It helps redirect air to healthier parts of the lung, reducing shortness of breath and supporting improved lung function and quality of life for eligible patients.
Our Approach to COPD Care
We recognize that COPD is more than a physical condition—it affects every aspect of your life. From diagnosis to treatment and ongoing support, we’re committed to standing by your side as we address all facets of COPD management and reclaim your vitality.
Inspira offers innovative treatment options like the Spiration Valve System, alongside a range of therapies to ensure you have access to the care you need. Through a comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program that addresses all aspects of COPD, including education, exercise training, nutritional guidance and counseling, we empower you to take control of your health and well-being, fostering resilience and enhancing your quality of life.
