What Is the Main Cause of COPD?

copd signs and symptoms

Understanding COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) encompasses an umbrella term for progressive lung disorders, the most common of which are chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD affects millions of individuals worldwide and is characterised by increased dyspnea or breathing difficulties. It drastically decreases the quality of life and burdens the medical sector heavily. Despite its widespread prevalence, many people have a limited awareness of copd causes and viable treatment choices. This blog seeks to explain the underlying cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and examine the growing popularity of homeopathy as an alternative treatment option for such a challenging condition.

COPD is distinguished by long-term respiratory issues and inadequate airflow. Even with little activity, copd symptoms can vary widely, from persistent coughing, sputum production, and wheezing to more serious ones, including recurrent respiratory infections and dyspnea. COPD usually progresses slowly, and many people don’t realise how bad the condition is until it progressively gets worse.

The Main Cause

The primary cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is clear: prolonged exposure to irritants that harm the lungs and airways. Cigarette smoke is the most significant of these irritants. Nonetheless, it’s critical to remember that COPD might also develop due to other conditions.

  1. Cigarette Smoking: The leading cause of COPD is tobacco use. The American Lung Association estimates that smoking is the primary cause of 85–90% of cases of COPD. Tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide—among the dangerous substances found in tobacco smoke—cause inflammation and damage the alveoli, which are small and tiny air sacs in the lungs, as well as the airways. This causes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, the two main components of COPD, to develop over time.
  2. Secondhand Smoke: Secondhand smoke exposure is another important risk factor. Nonsmokers living with smokers are more likely to acquire COPD as a result of toxic smoke inhalation. Passive smoking can harm the lungs just as much as active smoking does.
  3. Environmental Pollutants: Air pollution, both indoor and outdoor, is a major contributor to the development and progression of COPD. Indoor pollutants include biomass fuels used for cooking and heating in poorly ventilated areas, whereas external pollutants include vehicle emissions, industrial odours, and particulate matter. Long-term exposure to these contaminants can cause chronic airway irritation.
  4. Occupational Hazards: Some occupations expose workers to hazardous dust, chemicals, and fumes, which raises the risk of COPD. Jobs like construction, mining, and manufacturing sometimes require breathing pollutants such as silica dust, asbestos, and chemical vapours, all of which can cause lung damage over time. 
  5. Genetic Factors: Susceptibility to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is also influenced by genetics. Even in those who do not smoke, a lack of the lung-protecting protein alpha-1 antitrypsin can cause emphysema to develop in its early stages. This hereditary disorder emphasises that, although smoking is the leading cause, there are other risk factors for COPD as well.

Symptoms 

Some of the early signs and symptoms are:

  1. Occasional shortness of breath, particularly after exercise
  2. Mild yet persistent cough
  3. Urge to clear your throat, especially in the early

With time, symptoms could get worse and difficult to ignore. As the lungs deteriorate, you may notice:

  1. Breathlessness, even after gentle physical activity such as climbing up stairs
  2. Wheezing, a loud, higher-pitched breathing pattern that occurs mostly during exhalations
  3. Tightness in the chest
  4. Persistent cough, with or without mucus
  5. Need to clear mucus from your airways frequently.
  6. Recurring influenza, colds, or other respiratory diseases
  7. Low energy

Symptoms of COPD in its advanced stages might also include:

  • Exhaustion
  • Swelling in the foot, ankles, or legs
  • Loss of weight

Note: COPD signs and symptoms might appear mild initially, and you can misdiagnose them as a cold. 

Conclusion

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a debilitating condition primarily caused by long-term exposure to harmful irritants, with cigarette smoking being the most significant contributor. However, environmental pollutants, occupational hazards, and genetic factors also play crucial roles. Understanding these reasons is vital for prevention and early copd diagnosis.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathy plays a significant role in effectively managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. This alternative form of medicine focuses on treating the individual as a whole rather than just the symptoms of copd. When it comes to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, homeopathy aims to alleviate symptoms such as breathlessness, coughing, and wheezing while also addressing the underlying causes of copd. Copd homoeopathic remedies are derived from organic substances and are tailored to each patient’s specific needs, taking into account their unique symptoms, medical history, and overall health.

Homeopathy also emphasises the importance of lifestyle modifications and holistic approaches to managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This may involve dietary changes, breathing exercises, and stress reduction techniques. Homeopathy aims to improve overall well-being and enhance the body’s natural healing abilities by addressing the individual’s physical, mental, and emotional aspects. Consultation with a qualified homeopath is recommended for personalised and effective management.

Homeopathy offers a complementary approach to effective copd therapies that can benefit many patients. By focusing on individualised treatment plans, symptom relief, inflammation reduction, immune support, and overall well-being, homeopathy has helped numerous chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients achieve better health outcomes and improved quality of life.

As with any medical treatment, patients must consult with healthcare professionals before starting homeopathic remedies. By integrating homeopathy, COPD patients can explore a holistic approach to managing their condition, potentially experiencing faster and more effective results.

Bharat Homeopathy

Bharat Homeopathy is the leading hospital that provides effective care for COPD patients. 

At Bharat Homeopathy, we understand the challenges of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and its impact on daily life. Our highly qualified team of doctors and specialists is dedicated to providing personalised copd treatment plans unique to each patient’s needs. We offer the best treatment for copd and an all-natural solution to your ailments using organic remedies free of adverse effects. Our copd medications are sweet, small and suitable for all age groups. When you choose Bharat Homeopathy for your treatment, you can expect compassionate care in a state-of-the-art facility. We prioritise patient education and support, empowering individuals with COPD to actively participate in their treatment and make informed decisions about their health.

 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Find a cure for copd and take the first step towards a disease-free future.