COPD Specialist
Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Central Texas
Allergy and Asthma Specialists located in Austin, TX & Cedar Park, TX
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects more than 16 million Americans and is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Because proper COPD management is the only way to improve your airflow and relieve symptoms, the team at Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Central Texas provides the latest COPD solutions available. Book your COPD evaluation at a location in Austin, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Killeen, or Round Rock, Texas, by clicking on the online scheduler. You can also call your nearby clinic directly.
COPD Q & A
What causes COPD?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) includes several types of progressive diseases and disorders that limit your airflow. For example, chronic bronchitis and emphysema are the two leading conditions that contribute to COPD, although several other conditions exist, too.
While the main cause of COPD is cigarette smoking and secondhand smoke, your risk of developing COPD also increases due to:
- Certain genetic traits
- Workplace exposure to dust or fumes
- Regular exposure to air pollution
Plus, if you have asthma and also smoke, your risk of developing COPD goes up dramatically.
How do I know if I have COPD?
COPD develops gradually, especially after age 40. You likely won’t have significant symptoms until serious lung damage has already occurred though. Depending on why you have COPD and the severity of your lung tissue damage, the COPD symptoms you experience can include:
- Wheezing or whistling
- Lack of energy
- Ongoing respiratory infections
- Chest tightness
- A nagging cough
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in your lower extremities.
COPD symptoms tend to come in episodes, called exacerbations. During these times, your symptoms continue worsening for several days in a row, then eventually start to subside and stabilize.
No matter how minor or how severe your COPD symptoms may be though, the team at Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Central Texas can help you find just the right solution to manage your symptoms.
What is the treatment for COPD?
Your dedicated practitioner at Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Central Texas gets to know you as an individual and evaluates your entire medical history before getting you started on personalized COPD treatment. Depending on the cause and severity of your COPD, your treatment plan may include:
- Inhaled steroids
- Bronchodilators
- Combination inhalers
- Oral steroids
- Oxygen therapy
If you smoke, cessation is essential for your lung health. The team at Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Central Texas can help you learn to quit smoking and help you through every step of managing your COPD.
Get started on your personalized COPD management plan at Allergy and Asthma Clinic of Central Texas right away. Schedule your exam online or over the phone.