Management of COPD. Early identification and active intervention are crucial.
Medical management of COPD begins with an awareness of risk factors and identification of at-risk patients. Once disease is identified, patient and family education, a smoking cessation program, and an appropriate bronchodilator regimen should be initiated. Airway secretions and infections should be minimized, hypoxemia corrected, and other secondary physiologic disturbances evaluated when appropriate. Participation in a comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program can markedly improve symptoms, function, exercise performance, and quality of life. The results are a reduction in patient limitations, medical expenses, and dependence on medical facilities and caregivers.
Ferguson
G T
GT
Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, USA. gferguson@oncgate.roc.wayne.edu
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018680:Cholinergic Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006266:Health Education; D006801:Humans; D008173:Lung Diseases, Obstructive / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy*; D013566:Sympathomimetics / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D018680:Cholinergic Antagonists; D013566:Sympathomimetics