What is COPD?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, refractory (non-reversible) asthma, and some forms of bronchiectasis. This disease is characterized by increasing breathlessness.
Many people mistake their increased breathlessness and coughing as a normal part of aging. In the early stages of the disease, you may not notice the symptoms. COPD can develop for years without noticeable shortness of breath. You begin to see the symptoms in the more developed stages of the disease.
Merida Can Help
- Manages pain and symptoms
- Assists with the emotional, psychosocial and spiritual needs
- Provides needed drugs, medical supplies and equipment
- Instructs the family on how to care for the patient
- Delivers special services like speech and physical therapy when needed
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Services
Palliative care, sometimes called supportive care, is a key in the management of COPD. This type of care is focused on helping you achieve the best quality of life possible. It is appropriate for all people living with COPD no matter the stage or prognosis.
Palliative care teams can help COPD patients in a variety of ways. Some examples of how palliative care is used to help COPD patients include:
- Medications and therapies to help with discomfort like shortness of breath or anxiety
- Education about lifestyle changes during COPD
- Medication and disease management
- Consideration of psychological and social needs
- Physical conditioning
To learn more please call us 1-888-423-1197 and speak to a Merida representative.
