As the warm summer air turns into brisk autumn winds, flu season begins. The flu, short for influenza, is a contagious viral infection that can cause mild to severe illness, and even lead to life-threatening complications among vulnerable individuals [1]. Each year, flu season causes a surge in infections, leading to an increase in absences from work, reduced productivity, and overall discomfort/inability to perform daily tasks. Thankfully, we can address flu myths and provide plenty of ways to safeguard yourself and your loved ones by knowing how to stay healthy during flu season.

What is the Flu?

As previously mentioned, the flu is a viral infection that is primarily spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks close to other individuals. There are 3 main types of human-affecting influenza viruses: A, B, and C. Influenza A and B viruses are the cause of seasonal flu outbreaks, while influenza C is responsible for mild respiratory illness, and is less common [2].

What are Common Signs or Symptoms of the Flu?

Symptoms of the flu include a range of mild to severe symptoms, such as fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, and even gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea [3]. 

How to Prevent the Flu with Shots and Vaccinations

Because there are constantly new strains of the flu, every person should get vaccinated each year. The flu vaccine is designed to stimulate your body’s immune response against specific strains of the virus. While the vaccine may not guarantee complete immunity, it can significantly reduce the severity and duration of the illness if you were to contract the flu. Flu vaccinations are recommended for most individuals above the age of 6 months, particularly those in high-risk groups, like seniors or those with respiratory conditions [4].

How to Get a Flu Shot

The great news is that getting a flu shot is a very straightforward process. There are multiple places where you can receive one, such as your doctor’s office, most pharmacies, public health clinics, and even some workplaces. The ideal time to get a flu shot is in the early fall before the flu season officially begins. Flu shots are usually made available from late summer to early spring, so make an appointment earlier rather than later! 

If you have any concerns regarding getting a flu vaccination, consult with your primary care provider. 

Other Ways to Prevent the Flu

Although there’s no way to 100% guarantee you won’t contract the flu, there are many ways to help reduce your chance of catching it. Along with getting vaccinated, try these strategies [5]:

• Practice Good Hygiene: Properly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is an essential habit to adopt to protect against the flu and other illnesses. Additionally, avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. Touching these vulnerable areas can easily transfer germs from your hands to entry points. If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with a tissue or your elbow, which can prevent the spread of the virus to others. 

• Get Adequate Sleep: Strive to get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Getting adequate sleep is crucial for your overall health and immune function, which can help fight against the flu and make you less likely to catch it. 

• Manage Stress: Prolonged stress can weaken your immune system, making you more likely to contract the flu. To combat this, engage in relaxation techniques, like meditation, yoga, and spending time in nature. 

Natural Remedies for the Flu

If you do contract the flu, many natural remedies can help alleviate its symptoms and promote a faster recovery, such as [6]:

• Staying hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, like water, tea, and clear broths, to stay hydrated and help thin mucus secretions. 

• Drinking herbal teas: Ginger and chamomile tea can help relieve nausea and reduce inflammation. Echinacea and elderberry teas are also known for their immune-stimulating effects. Tea, in general, has soothing properties and can help ease the soreness of your throat. 

• Inhaling Steam: Steam inhalation can help ease congestion and reduce nasal inflammation and pressure. To do this, fill a bowl with hot water, drape a towel over your head to create a tent, and breathe in the steam for a few minutes. 

• Gargling with Salt Water: Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation. To do this, mix a half-teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and gargle it several times a day. 

• Consuming Honey: Honey has antibacterial and soothing properties that can help ease coughs and sore throats. Adding a spoonful of honey to warm water, or tea, or just consuming it on its own is a great idea!

• Increasing Vitamin C, Zinc, and Probiotic Intake: Vitamin C-rich foods, like citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwis, and bell peppers can be consumed to help support your immune system. Zinc can help shorten the duration of the flu if taken within 24 hours of symptom onset. Zinc can be taken in tablet form, or through Zinc-rich foods, like nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains. Finally, consuming probiotics through tablets or probiotic-rich foods, like yogurt, can help support gut health and strengthen the immune system. 

When to Seek Medical Attention for the Flu

Although natural remedies can help with flu symptoms, it is important to reach out for medical attention if symptoms get bad enough. Seek medical help if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, severe dehydration, confusion, or bluish lips or face [7]. Early treatment is crucial for those especially in high-risk groups, as they are more vulnerable to flu complications. 

Treatment and Flu Shots for Seniors at Greater Good

Staying healthy during flu season is extremely important, and requires a combination of preventative measures, healthy habits, and community-wide effort. Taking these steps not only protects yourself but also helps protect vulnerable individuals from the flu and complications that may come with it. Let’s make flu season a time of proactive health protection and support for one another through flu treatment for adults who are older. Contact us today to schedule a senior primary care appointment with Greater Good Health to receive flu shots or treatment. Find a senior care clinic near you.

A stroke is a frightening prospect, but it can happen to anyone at any time. As we prioritize our health, it is always smart to remain aware of potential warning signs and to keep preventative strategies in mind if these signs arise. This blog post will discuss several signs of a stroke and what to do in their presence so that you can reduce the risk of a health scare and continue living your best life.

What is a stroke?

A stroke, or “brain attack,” occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted or stopped altogether. This is a very serious situation, since the brain needs a constant supply of nutrients to function, and brain cells begin to die after just a few minutes without blood flow. A stroke may impair your ability to move, speak, think, manage emotions, and control bodily functions. [1]

What are the Different Types of Strokes?

There are 2 main types of strokes:

1. Ischemic Strokes occur when a blood clot or plaque buildup blocks or narrows a blood vessel, reducing blood flow to a specific part of the brain. This causes brain cells in that area to become deprived of oxygen and nutrients, leading to damage or death of those cells. Ischemic strokes account for the majority of stroke cases (about 85-90%).
2. Hemorrhagic Strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and causes bleeding into the surrounding brain tissue. The accumulation of blood puts pressure on the brain and often damages or destroys brain cells. Hemorrhagic strokes account for a smaller percentage of strokes but are generally more severe and life-threatening. 

Most Common Risk Factors for Strokes

There are several risk factors for a stroke. Many are unavoidable, such as the ones below: 

• Age: Those who are older have a higher risk of stroke. For each decade after age 55, one’s chance of having a stroke more than doubles.

• Race: African Americans are generally at a higher risk of stroke compared to Caucasians and Asians [2]. 

• History of prior stroke: Having already had a stroke significantly increases one’s risk of having another.

• Genetics: The chance of a stroke is greater in those with a family history of strokes. 

Controllable Risk Factors of a Stroke:

However, many risk factors can be changed, treated, or medically managed, such as the following [1]:

• High blood pressure: A blood pressure of 140/90 or higher can damage the arteries that supply blood to the brain.

• Heart disease: Heart disease is among the most important risk factors for a stroke and a major cause of death among survivors of a stroke.

• Diabetes: Those with diabetes have a greater risk of stroke than those without.

• Smoking: Smoking nearly doubles one’s risk for an ischemic stroke, which is the most common type of stroke.

• Alcohol consumption: More than two drinks per day raises one’s blood pressure, increasing the risk of a stroke. Binge drinking also greatly increases the chance of having a stroke, and should be avoided.

• Birth-control pills: Oral contraceptives containing estrogen may slightly increase the risk of stroke. [7] 

• High red blood cell count: A high number of red blood cells thickens the blood and makes clots more likely.

• High cholesterol levels: High cholesterol levels can contribute to atherosclerosis, a hardening of the arteries due to plaque, which can decrease or cut blood flow to the brain.

• Lack of exercise: A regular exercise routine is always a good thing to have to manage the risk of stroke as well as overall health. 

• Obesity: Each unit increase in body mass index (BMI) increases the risk of stroke by 5%. [8]

• Abnormal heart rhythm: Having an irregular heartbeat, or (atrial fibrillation), is the most powerful and treatable heart risk factor for a stroke.

Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke

Several cues indicate that you may be having a stroke. Be aware of the ones below, as every moment counts when it comes to fast treatment.

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side of the body): If you believe you may be experiencing numbness or weakness in one side of your face/body, try smiling. If one side of your face droops, this may be a bad sign. Next, try raising both arms. If one arm drifts downward, this too may be a bad sign, and you should contact your primary care doctor immediately.

• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech: To assess this, repeat a simple phrase, such as “The sky is blue.” If your speech comes out slurred or abnormal, this may be a sign you had a stroke.

• Sudden difficulty seeing in one or both eyes. 

• Sudden loss of balance/coordination or dizziness.
• Severe headache of unknown origin.

A good way to remember the signs of a stroke is through the acronym FAST [1]: 

• F – Face drooping
• A – Arm weakness
• S – Speech difficulty
• T – Time to call 9-1-1

If your stroke symptoms go away after a few minutes, you may still not be in the clear. This may be an indication that you’ve had a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), also called a “mini-stroke.” Although brief, a TIA is a sign of a serious condition and requires medical attention (just like a major stroke does) [6].

What To Do During a Stroke

If you or someone you know shows any of the signs above, call 9-1-1 immediately.  

Emergency treatment after a stroke may include the following [1]:

• Clot-busting medicines: Medicines like thrombolytics or fibrinolytics dissolve the blood clots that cause an ischemic stroke and help reduce the damage to brain cells caused by the stroke. They should be given within 3 hours of a stroke occurring.

• Medicines to reduce brain swelling: Special types of IV fluids can be used to help reduce or control swelling in the brain. 

• Neuroprotective medicines: These medicines help to further protect the brain from damage and lack of oxygen.

• Life support measures: These include ventilators (which help with breathing) and IV fluids.

• Craniotomy: This is a type of brain surgery done to remove blood clots, relieve pressure, or repair bleeding in the brain.

Senior Primary and Preventive Services at Greater Good Health

In conclusion, there are ample risk factors and signs we should be aware of when it comes to strokes. Though the prospect of a stroke is understandably frightening, keeping in mind what has been discussed in this blog post and promptly reaching out for medical assistance can help ensure a long and healthy life. Greater Good Health can help you stay healthy through preventive care and regular check-ups during senior primary care. Schedule an appointment with us today or find a location for senior primary care near you.

Your health is precious, and choosing the right healthcare provider can be a pivotal decision that shapes your well-being and quality of life. You may feel overwhelmed when faced with the task of choosing a healthcare provider, unsure of if they will fit your needs. Whether you seek a guide for routine medical check-ups or an expert to help you navigate the complexities of a chronic condition, these factors will empower you to make an informed decision. 

Assessing Your Needs and Preferences

When choosing a healthcare provider, it is vital to first grasp an understanding of your specific health requirements. Do you need chronic care management? Do you require specialized care? Are you just looking for routine check-ups with a new doctor? Ask yourself these questions before embarking on finding a new provider. Different providers offer different services, including primary care, specialty care, telehealth options, and more. Assess your preferences and needs to decide whether a primary care physician would suffice, or if you require specialized care. Understanding your needs will help you narrow down your search and identify providers with expertise in your health concerns. This will not only ensure you find the right provider but decrease the amount of overwhelm you feel when sifting through the thousands of doctors out there.

Tips for Choosing a Healthcare Provider

It’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed when first starting to search for healthcare providers online. Here are some strategies you can use to make this process less stressful.

Conduct Your Research

The first step in choosing a healthcare provider is to research primary care clinic. Identify if the offered services fit your needs, and consider recommendations and credibility by utilizing the following tips:

• Consider Recommendations and Referrals: Seeking recommendations from family, friends, or other trusted individuals can be an excellent starting point for your research. Hearing about the personal experiences of people you know and trust often offers valuable insights into a provider’s care style and expertise. 

• Check Out Online Reviews and Ratings: It is always a great idea to do some research through online review platforms when you have a specific provider in mind. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews—although ratings can be skewed and everyone has differing opinions, reading all reviews can help you gain a balanced perspective on the provider’s strengths and weaknesses. 

• Verify Credentials and Accreditation: Always double-check a healthcare provider’s credentials and licenses to ensure they are qualified and authorized to practice medicine. Likewise, consider whether the healthcare facility they are a part of has the necessary accreditations, as this shows a commitment to meeting specific quality standards. 

Accessibility and Location

Identifying the accessibility and location of a primary health provider is crucial, especially when an illness arises. When choosing the location of a provider, identify the following:

• Proximity to Your Home: Choosing a provider that is accessible via your desired form of transportation offers convenience, particularly in case of emergencies. Do you plan on driving, walking, or taking public transportation to their office? Consider if this mode of transportation makes sense with your office’s location. 

• Office Hours and Availability: Providers with flexible office hours and same-day availability of appointments can significantly impact your healthcare experience, especially if a healthcare need is urgent. Ensure that the provider’s schedule aligns with yours to avoid potential delays in treatment. 

• Emergency Care and/or After-Hours Services: Along with general availability, you should also inquire about the availability of emergency services or after-hours, especially if you have a chronic health condition. 

Insurance and Financial Factors

Choose a provider that accepts your insurance coverage, and some primary care providers accept Medicare. Look for the following insurance information when finding a primary care provider:

• In-Networks vs. Out-of-Network: If you have health insurance, you must determine whether the healthcare provider you are choosing is within your insurance network. In-network providers often have negotiated lower rates, while out-of-network providers do not. This can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses for visits and treatment. 

• Insurance Coverage and Benefits: Review your insurance policies carefully to understand the coverage and benefits available to you. By familiarizing yourself with co-payments, deductibles, and any restrictions that may apply to your specific medical service needs now, you can avoid any surprise charges later on. 

• Transparent Pricing and Billing: Ask the healthcare provider’s office about their pricing and billing practices upfront. Transparency in communication about costs can help you make more informed financial decisions. 

Quality of Care

To ensure comfortability and reliability during your primary care appointments, explore more about the company’s culture and credibility, including:

• Type of Approach: It is always a good idea to search for a healthcare provider who prioritizes patient-centered care. This can be described as an approach that values active listening, personalized treatment plans, and involving you in the decision-making process involving your health. 

• Expertise and Experience: The experience and level of expertise your healthcare provider has is extremely important. A provider with a track record of successful outcomes in managing medical conditions similar to yours, with positive patient experiences, is typically a good indicator of quality care. 

• Hospital or Clinic Ratings: If you plan on visiting a hospital or clinic for care, research the quality metrics and rankings of this location to assess their overall performance and patient safety standards. 

Other Aspects to Consider

When attending appointments, ensure that your provider is the best fit for you. Identify the following before and after meeting with your provider:

• Communication Style: Open and honest communication with your healthcare provider is essential for receiving effective and proper care. Search for a provider who actively listens to your needs and concerns, addressing them with empathy and care. 

• Cultural Competence and Understanding: Healthcare providers who demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds can better meet the unique needs of their patients. If this is important to you, don’t be afraid to inquire about this before scheduling an appointment. 

• Advanced Medical Technology/Telemedicine Services: Many healthcare providers embrace modern medical technology and equipment that can help offer more accurate diagnoses and effective treatment. Some utilize electronic health records that can help coordinate care. Additionally, more and more healthcare providers are offering telehealth services, like virtual consultations. However, some still do not offer these services. Check ahead of time if your provider offers these services to help you make your decision.

• Personal Preferences for Doctors: Some patients have personal preferences that they’d like their doctor to fit. For example, some patients would rather have a doctor of a certain gender, or require their doctor to speak their native language. Additionally, some patients may want a doctor who is sensitive to their cultural or religious beliefs along their health journey.  Take your personal preferences into consideration when choosing a provider. 

• Stability and Turnover Rate: Continuity of care is valuable for managing healthy conditions and building a lasting relationship with your healthcare provider. Look into the provider’s history to evaluate their stability and longevity in their current practice. Frequent turnover can disrupt the continuity of care and patient satisfaction.

Choosing a Healthcare Provider at Greater Good Health

Choosing a healthcare provider is a significant decision that requires a great deal of careful consideration. Although it will likely take time and energy, this process will help you make an informed choice that aligns with your needs and preferences. Greater Good Health is proud to offer primary care for seniors through compassionate care. Learn more about our services for healthcare for seniors and contact us today to get started.

As we navigate through the later stages of life, it is essential to prioritize our dental health, especially for seniors who may face challenges in maintaining optimal oral hygiene. Preventing gum disease and tooth loss becomes more and more important with age to ensure a comfortable and healthy lifestyle. It is essential to explore the importance of dental health for seniors and effective strategies to combat dental challenges so to keep smiling confidently.

The Link Between Aging and Dental Health

Aging introduces several factors that can affect your dental health. Seniors often face oral health issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, dry mouth, and tooth sensitivity [1]. These issues can lead to discomfort, pain, difficulty eating, and even negatively affect one’s self-esteem.

Tooth decay becomes common among seniors due to factors like weakened enamel, dry mouth, and dietary habits [1]. Gum disease, which includes gingivitis and periodontitis, is also common and can lead to tooth loss if not treated properly, or at all. Additionally, dry mouth, which is typically caused by medications or certain medical conditions, reduces the amount of saliva produced and increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Tooth sensitivity can make eating certain foods, particularly ones that are especially hot or cold, uncomfortable. 

How Can Gum Disease Affect Your Health?

The link between gum disease, or periodontal disease, and overall health goes far beyond the oral cavity. Research has shown that there is a large correlation between gum disease and more threatening conditions in seniors. When gum disease goes without treatment, the oral bacteria and inflammation can go into the bloodstream which may affect distant organs and systems.

How Can Gum Disease Cause Other Health Issues?

Gum disease and cardiovascular disease are highly correlated. Studies have shown that inflammation caused by gum disease can contribute to the development or progression of heart disease, which leads to a higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues [2]. Research is still being conducted on why this correlation exists, but it is believed that the bacteria and inflammatory substances released in gum disease can trigger a systemic inflammatory response, which can affect the blood vessels and prompt the formation of arterial plaques. 

Gum disease is also associated with diabetes, through a bidirectional relationship — meaning, each condition influences the other [3]. Poorly treated diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease, and gum disease can make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels. Gum disease often causes insulin resistance, impairment of glycemic control, and potentially worsened diabetic complications. Because of this, it is especially important for those with diabetes to effectively manage it to reduce the risk of developing gum disease, and vice versa. 

Strategies for Maintaining Dental Health in Seniors

Maintaining proper dental health and reducing the risk of developing gum disease among seniors requires a proactive approach that includes careful attention to the following: 

• Brushing Techniques and Frequency: You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush your teeth gently and thoroughly, making sure you brush each and every tooth’s surface, including the gumline. Using a toothbrush with a small head and comfortable grip can make brushing easier for seniors with dexterity issues. If you find you have trouble gauging how long you should be brushing, set a timer, or play a song that is around 2 minutes to help. 

• Flossing and Interdental Cleaning: Along with regular brushing, seniors should also be flossing and interdental cleaning, as these practices have a large role in preventing gum disease. Flossing daily removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and along the gumline. Other interdental cleaning tools, such as brushes or water flossers, can also be helpful, especially for seniors with limited dexterity. 

• Selecting the Correct Oral Care Products: There are oral care products available that cater to specific needs. For example, toothpaste containing fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. If you have a dry mouth, using a moisturizing mouth rinse or a saliva substitute can help alleviate dryness and protect against conditions associated with reduced saliva flow. 

• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Seniors should continue with regular visits to the dentist for check-ups and professional cleanings. Dentists are trained to identify early signs of gum disease or other oral health conditions and can provide the appropriate advice and treatment to care for them. Your recommended frequency of visits may vary depending on your personal needs, but a check-up every 6 months is the typical frequency for the average individual. 

• Addressing Dental Issues Early: If you think you may be experiencing a dental issue, it is essential to address it promptly to prevent the progression of gum disease and tooth loss. Any signs of gum inflammation, bleeding, or tooth sensitivity should be reported to your dentist immediately. By intervening early, you can help preserve your teeth and prevent further damage to the gums. 

• Balanced Diet: A healthy diet is important for maintaining oral health. Seniors must focus on consuming a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to prevent oral conditions. Foods that are high in calcium, such as dairy and leafy greens, help strengthen the teeth and other bones. Additionally, crunchy fruits and vegetables, like apples and carrots, not only provide essential nutrients but also help stimulate saliva flow, which aids in the natural cleansing of the teeth and gums. 

• Limiting Foods High in Sugar and Acid: Along with consuming a healthy diet, seniors should also be mindful of how much sugar and acid they take in, as these can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Candy and acidic beverages should be consumed in moderation, if at all. If consumed, seniors may benefit from rinsing their mouths with water afterward and waiting some time before brushing away the softened tooth enamel [4]. 

• Quitting Smoking and Reducing Alcohol Consumption [5]: Smoking has detrimental effects on oral health, including an increased risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. It is advised that seniors quit smoking to improve their oral health, as well as their overall health. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to dry mouth and gum disease. Avoiding alcohol can also improve one’s dental well-being. 

Dental Care Options for Seniors

Fortunately, there are many dental care options available for seniors who have faced dental challenges, such as tooth loss or gum disease [6]. These include: 

• Dentures are a common solution for seniors who have lost some, or all, of their natural teeth. Seniors may get complete dentures, or partial dentures, which are designed to replace only a few missing teeth. Dentures are custom-made to comfortably fit each unique mouth so that seniors can eat, speak, and smile with ease. 

• Dental Implants have changed tooth replacement options completely, offering a more permanent solution than dentures. Dental implants are small posts made of titanium that are surgically inserted into the jawbone. Once the implants fuse with the bone, they can support dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. 

• Dental Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of dental browns on healthy teeth with a false tooth attached in between. Bridges can help seniors regain proper chewing and prevent their surrounding teeth from shifting. 

• Dental Crowns, or “caps,” are fake teeth that cover a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns can be used to protect a weakened tooth after a root canal or restore a broken or decayed tooth. They can provide strength and stability, allowing seniors to keep their natural teeth for as long as possible. 

• Periodontal Treatments are used especially for seniors with gum disease. Scaling and root planing, or deep cleaning, can remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line. Surgical treatments may be necessary in more extreme cases to address gum pockets and promote gum tissue regeneration. 

Senior Health Care Services at Greater Good Health

In conclusion, the importance of dental health for seniors cannot be overlooked. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is essential for the overall health and well-being of seniors. By implementing the strategies discussed in this blog post, seniors can reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth loss, allowing them to enjoy a confident and comfortable smile as they age. Greater Good Health provides primary care for seniors to monitor the signs and effects of gum disease. Additionally, we provide preventative care and chronic care management for any correlating diseases. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or find a primary care location near you.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, is a widespread and detrimental lung disease that affects more than 15 million adults in the United States, alone [1]. COPD is a chronic condition that causes constant limitation to one’s airflow, making it increasingly difficult for them to breathe without strain and pain over time. As COPD is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, and the chance of developing it tends to increase with age [2], it is endlessly essential to understand and manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease diagnosis and management, especially for seniors.

What is COPD?

COPD is an umbrella term for two main conditions: 

• Chronic Bronchitis can be described as the inflammation and narrowing of one’s airways, which causes the production of excess mucus and a chronic cough. This critical inflammation can cause the airways to become so swollen, tight, and clogged that it becomes very challenging for air to move in and out of the lungs with ease. 

• Emphysema occurs when there is destruction of the alveoli, or air sacs, in the lungs. The air sacs are responsible for taking in oxygen and putting out carbon dioxide each time one takes a breath. When one has emphysema, the air sacs lose their elasticity and become damaged, which results in a reduced surface area for the input of oxygen and the output of carbon dioxide. This often leads to one struggling to intake enough oxygen and put out carbon dioxide when breathing.

Common Symptoms of COPD

The most common symptoms of COPD include: 

• Shortness of breath
• Chronic cough
• Wheezing
• Excessive production of sputum

Symptoms typically worsen over time and can become debilitating to one’s life and responsibilities. 

Causes and Risk Factors of COPD

A main cause of COPD is long-term exposure to irritating gases, such as cigarette smoke. In fact, smoking causes 85-90% of all COPD cases [3] because of the harmful chemicals and irritants in tobacco smoke. These chemicals trigger chronic inflammation in the airways and lead to damage and narrowing of the air passages. People who have smoked for longer and heavier have an increased risk of developing COPD. 

Although smoking greatly increases one’s chance of developing COPD, non-smokers are not fully safe from this disease, due to environmental factors. People who have prolonged exposure to air pollution, both indoors and outdoors, have an increased risk of developing this condition. Dust, chemicals, and fumes from industrial emissions can irritate and damage the airways over time [4]. 

Finally, people with particularly dangerous work environments may be exposed to certain damaging substances that can also lead to COPD. Individuals who work in mining, construction, manufacturing, and agriculture should be aware of how much they come in contact with harmful particles and fumes, as they can damage the lungs. These hazards include silica dust, coal dust, asbestos fibers, and chemical vapors [5]. Avoidance of these hazards and using proper protection, like masks, are crucial for minimizing the risk of contracting this disease.

Is COPD Genetic?

Unfortunately, genetic factors can also play a role in the development of COPD. For example, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic condition, can increase one’s chance of developing COPD, especially if genetic predisposition is combined with environmental exposures [6]. A history of respiratory tract infections during childhood can lead to lung damage over time, which can contribute to COPD. 

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Diagnosis and Management

It is crucial to detect and diagnose COPD as early as possible for effective management and improved outcomes. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms previously mentioned, consult your doctor immediately to get the medical attention you need.

The diagnosis of COPD[7] often involves a combination of clinical assessment, medical history review, and multiple tests during primary care for seniors. Your healthcare provider will begin with a detailed evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and exposure to risk factors. Then, they will evaluate your lung function through a physical examination and by using a stethoscope to listen for abnormal breath patterns. 

Several diagnostic tests may be performed to confirm a COPD diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition, such as: 

• Spirometry: This is typically the primary test used to diagnose COPD, and measures lung function by evaluating how much air you can inhale with how much force, and how quickly you can empty your lungs. During this test, you will take a deep breath and blow forcefully through a tube. 

• Imaging Studies: Chest X-rays and computed tomography 9CT) scans may be performed to evaluate the structure and condition of the lungs. These tests can detect signs of lung damage, such as emphysema, and rule out other causes of respiratory issues. 
• Arterial Blood Gas Test: This test measures the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in your blood. This helps report how well your lungs function in oxygenating the blood and removing carbon dioxide. 

Proper diagnosis and evaluation of COPD are essential for confirming COPD, as well as ruling out all other potential causes of symptoms, like asthma, bronchiectasis, or heart failure. 

How to Manage COPD

While COPD is a chronic disease, effective management skills can drastically improve symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. COPD management usually involves a combination of medications, pulmonary rehabilitation, lifestyle alterations, and routine monitoring. 

• Medications[8]: Properly medicating COPD plays a huge role in managing its symptoms and reducing flare-ups. Your doctor may prescribe bronchodilators to relax the muscles around the airways, which help you breathe with more ease. In some cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation in the airways. Keep your doctor updated on any symptoms or side effects you may experience on medications, and take the medication only as directed by your healthcare provider. 

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation[9]: These rehabilitation programs aim to improve the overall well-being of people with COPD. They usually include exercise training, education, and support for these individuals. Exercise training helps to improve cardiovascular fitness, which strengthens respiratory muscles and enhances tolerance to physical activity. Education sessions teach how to manage symptoms, properly take an inhaler, and conserve energy/deal with breathlessness. 

• Lifestyle Alterations: Certain lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on COPD management. The most important lifestyle choice you can make when diagnosed with COPD is to stop smoking if you haven’t already. Smoking cessation programs, nicotine replacement therapy, and support groups can help when quitting smoking. Additionally, exercising regularly, as recommended by your doctor, can improve your cardiovascular health and decrease symptoms. Finally, eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides the necessary nutrients needed to support your overall health. 

• Exacerbation Management: Exacerbations, or “flare-ups,” are episodes of worsening symptoms that may require additional treatment and medical attention. You must develop an action plan with your doctor to manage flare-ups effectively, which may include adjusting medicine doses or increasing the use of rescue inhalers. 

• Routine Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential to monitor the progression of your COPD and adjust any aspects of your management plan. During your routine visits, your doctor will assess your lung function and discuss your symptoms. Be sure to address any concerns you may have about COPD with your doctor. 

Chronic Care Management at Greater Good Health

Understanding chronic obstructive pulmonary disease diagnosis and management is crucial for people living with this lung condition. By becoming aware of the symptoms, risks, warning signs, and treatment options, you can take steps to prevent and/or treat COPD with the help of your doctor. Greater Good Health is proud to provide chronic care management in primary care for seniors. Find a primary care location near you, and contact us today to schedule your appointment.