That means adding treatments such as supplemental oxygen as needed and possibly taking part in apulmonary rehabilitation program.
What Is Advanced COPD?
Advanced COPD is not always exclusive to the lungs.
We see weight loss, muscle wasting, things of that nature, Dr. Gates says.
So it doesnt always correlate with how the patient is doing, but it can.
One element of advanced COPD is poor lung function, as measured by breathing tests.
How to minimize and adapt to these symptoms is the main focus of treatment for advanced COPD.
One option that can be particularly helpful ispulmonary rehabilitation.
Pulmonary rehab typically involves learning exercises and other techniques that can help you breathe more easily.
Someone who exercises regularly is probably going to function better than a person with moderate disease who is inactive.
And thats not our intention at all, she says.
Our intention is to look at your symptoms and allow our palliative doctors to help manage them.
Palliative care specialists focus on helping you manage symptoms in ways other than treating the underlying disease.
With palliative care, people still want aggressive care.
They still go to the hospital when theyre sick; they still see their doctors, he says.
But it helps with symptomatic treatment.
Hospice is really a patient-driven, patient preference option, says Gates.
It typically involves home care focused on comfort and symptom management.
But sometimes thats not possible.
Talk to your healthcare team and your loved ones about your wishes regarding end-of-life care.
You may decide to complete a healthcare proxy.
Ultimately, Khabazza says, hospice care and end-of-life planning are about peace of mind.
David Mannino, MD, is the chief medical officer at theCOPD Foundation.
He has a long history of research and engagement in respiratory health.
He was also a coauthor of the Surgeon Generals Report on Tobacco in 2008 and 2014.
Diagnosed With COPD What Should I Do Now?
