COPD

If you struggle with ongoing wheezing or shortness of breath, these bothersome symptoms may indicate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). At Expedient Medical, PLLC, in Williamsville, New York, board-eligible internal medicine physician Sarwat Khawar, MD, and his dedicated staff offer effective COPD treatments to help you breathe easier. Call the office to schedule an evaluation, or use the online booking feature today.

What is COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a chronic inflammatory lung condition that affects your airways and breathing. It obstructs airflow, which might make exercise and other daily tasks challenging. See Dr. Khawar at the first sign of breathing problems to get relief from COPD. 

He treats COPD, asthma, obstructive sleep apnea, and other common medical conditions that can restrict your airflow. 

What are the symptoms of COPD?

The symptoms of COPD include:

• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty breathing
• Excess mucus production
• Wheezing
• Chronic coughing 
• Breathing challenges during exercise
• Chest tightness
• Fatigue
• Frequent respiratory infections 
• Foot, ankle, or leg swelling
• Unexplained weight loss 

Your COPD symptoms may be mild, severe, or crippling.

What are the risk factors for COPD?

The most common COPD risk factors include:

• Exposure to irritating gasses
• Smoking
• Second-hand smoke exposure
• Exposure to dust or chemicals
• Burning fuel fume exposure
• Asthma 
• Bronchitis
• Emphysema 
• Genetics

When left untreated, COPD can increase your risk of heart problems, lung cancer, respiratory infections, pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in your lungs), and depression. 

How does my doctor diagnose COPD?

To determine if you have COPD, Dr. Khawar weighs you, checks your vital signs, and completes a physical exam. He asks about your medical history, symptoms, lifestyle habits, medications, and more. 

You might undergo various diagnostic tests, including lung function tests, chest X-rays, a CT scan, lab tests, or other tests to confirm a diagnosis and determine which treatment most benefits your needs. 

How is COPD treated?

Your COPD treatment plan may include making lifestyle changes, undergoing respiratory therapy, using a humidifier, getting regular exercise, and eating nutritious foods. Avoid breathing smoke and air pollution, and keep the air in your home clean by using air filters.

Oral medicines or an inhaler can improve your breathing. Additional COPD treatment options include oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, non-invasive home ventilation therapy, and sometimes surgery. 

Dr. Khawar may refer you to a specialist if you have a complex or severe form of COPD. He follows up with you to ensure your treatment is effective.

Call the Expedient Medical, PLLC, office today or schedule an appointment online to find relief from COPD symptoms.