COPD Treatment Richardson

COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to a group of diseases that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Over time, COPD makes it harder to breathe. You can’t reverse lung damage, but lifestyle changes and medication changes can help you manage the symptoms or when you have a COPD exacerbation. We are able to provide on-site breathing treatments with albuterol.

COPD is an umbrella term for a range of progressive lung diseases. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema can both result in COPD. A COPD diagnosis means you may have one of these lung-damaging diseases or symptoms of both. COPD can progress gradually, making it harder to breathe over time. At Make You Well, we have many patients that are currently undergoing treatment for COPD and are leading normal lives.

The providers at Make You Well in Richardson are experts in diagnosing and treating COPD through the latest technologies in the field. COPD is a rather common condition, and the number of Americans with COPD is about 20 million, with a suspected 12 million additional patients that are undiagnosed.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is COPD?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a group of progressive lung diseases — primarily emphysema and chronic bronchitis — that block airflow and make breathing difficult. Smoking is the leading cause, though long-term exposure to air pollutants and dust can also contribute.

What are the symptoms of COPD?

Symptoms include a persistent cough (often with mucus), shortness of breath during everyday activities, wheezing, chest tightness, and frequent respiratory infections. Symptoms typically worsen gradually over time.

How is COPD treated?

COPD is managed rather than cured. Treatment may include bronchodilator inhalers, inhaled steroids, pulmonary rehabilitation, supplemental oxygen, and lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation. Your Make You Well provider will develop a management plan tailored to your stage of disease.

Can COPD be prevented?

The most effective prevention is never smoking or quitting smoking as early as possible. Avoiding long-term exposure to air pollutants, chemical fumes, and dust also reduces risk.