Question

Discussion of self-management options and strategies for COPD

Answer 1

A.Smoking cessation

It has been shown that middleaged smokers who were able to successfully stop smoking experienced a significant improvement in the rate of decline in pulmonary function, returning to annual changes similar to that of nonsmoking patients. Thus, all patients with COPD should be strongly urged to quit smoking and educated about the benefits of quitting. An emerging body of evidence demonstrates that combining pharmacotherapy with traditional supportive approaches considerably enhances the chances of successful smoking cessation. There are three principal pharmacologic approaches to the problem: bupropion; nicotine replacement therapy available as gum, transdermal patch, lozenge, inhaler, and nasal spray; and varenicline, a nicotinic acid receptor agonist/antagonist. Current recommendations from the U.S. Surgeon General are that all adult, nonpregnant smokers considering quitting be offered pharmacotherapy, in the absence of any contraindication to treatment.

B. Regular exercise and nutritional management

C.Weight loss in obese patients

D. Reduction of bronchial irritation

E. Treatment and prevention of respiratory infections

F. Hot drinks and steam inhalation to liquify sputum