April 12, 2024

COPD

COPD

Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND

COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In COPD there is damage to the airways and our lungs. This damage can block the airways and make it hard to breath. COPD often entails production of mucus, which triggers a cough. COPD is considered to be a chronic, progressive disease that worsens over time. In the US COPD refers to emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Most people who have been diagnosed with COPD have a combination of emphysema and chronic bronchitis. (1)

Just a quick rehash on chronic bronchitis. This is a condition that involves inflammation of the bronchial tubes and is characterized by a chronic cough and mucus production. For more details please see my blog on bronchitis. Emphysema, the other part of the equation of COPD is a condition where the alveoli (part of the lungs) are destroyed due to expose to irritating gasses, cigarette and particulate matter. (2)

People who have CODP develop a chronic, smoker – like cough that is chronic and does not subside even after months or even years. COPD also involves excessive mucus formation that may be transparent, white, pale green or yellow in color. One of the symptoms that most people with COPD find to be the most problematic is shortness of breath. The shortness of breath usually worsens with physical exertion. Another common symptom is a feeling of tightness in the chest, usually when you are inhaling. There may also be wheezing, which can impact speech as well as breathing. As the COPD becomes more advanced it can begin to affect oxygen levels and thus can lead to cyanosis or blue lips and nails. This can also lead to mental confusion. As the heart tries to get oxygen rich blood around the body it will try to compensate for the lower oxygen levels by pumping faster to get more blood to circulate. Thus you will feel a rapid heart rate. In later stages there may be weight loss. (3) Lastly there may be a lack of energy and even swelling of the ankles, feet or legs. (2)

In the US one of the leading causes of COPD is smoking. In the developing world one of the most common causes is actually air pollution. Another causes of COPD is a rare genetic condition called Alpha -1 antitrypsin deficiency. (1) Risk factors for developing COPD include exposure to things such as tobacco, fumes from burning fuel, and exposure to dust and chemicals. Having asthma is also a risk factor. Lastly having the genetic disorder Alpha -1 antitrypsin deficiency is also a risk factor. (2)

COPD can have severe complications. Having COPD increases your risk of respiratory tract infections such as colds. COPD also increases your risk of heart disease such as heart attack and even high blood pressure. COPD also increases the risk of lung cancer. Lastly COPD can increase the risk of developing depression. (2)

Just like with bronchitis we want to concentrate on our overall lung and immune system health. How can we do that? Well there a number of things that I will review.

Wet socks! I have mentioned this before as being helpful in reducing mucus. In my clinical experience this is one of those things that sounds weird but really does help. I’ve included a link with directions how to do this helpful protocol. (4)
Menthol rubs have been found to help with the symptoms of bronchitis. (5) I am sure everyone remembers a family member using menthol rubs to help them when you were younger. And you know what? That’s because it works.
NAC has been found to be very helpful in reducing the symptoms of bronchitis and studies suggest that it should be considered in the management of bronchitis. (6) Please see Invite’s NAC, Detox Hx and Daily Detox Powder!
Black Seed has been found in studies to help improve our lung function and overall lung health. (7) Please see Invite’s Black Seed formula
Green tea has been found to be helpful in promoting our lung health. Everyone knows how soothing tea is when you have a cough. I personally recommend 2 full droppers of Green Tea Tx in tea with honey and lemon to help sooth your throat when you are coughing. (8) Please see Invite’s Green Tea Tx!
Vitamin C has been found in studies to help boost our immune health and to help fight off infections. (9) This is important when you have COPD because it increases your risk of infections. Please see Invite’s Buffered C 500, 1000 mg and even our Immunity Hx!
Vitamin D has also been found to help boost our immune system and help fight off different viral infections. (10) Please see Invite’s Vitamin D3 in 1000 and 3000 IU as well our Immunity Hx.
Mushrooms have been found to help modulate our immune systems. (11) Please see Invite’s Mushroom Hx and Black Seed formula!
I also want to point out that since smoking is one of the most common causes of COPD it is important to stop smoking to help eliminate this risk. (2)