COPD Treatment in Live Oak, TX

What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, describes a variety of chronic lung diseases that leave the person affected unable to breathe properly. This condition is becoming more and more common for Americans, and it is one of the leading causes of death among them.

Most often, you will see COPD in the form of:

  • Emphysema
  • Chronic Bronchitis
  • Refractory Asthma

Dr. Nguyen is a board-certified physician and has over twenty-four years of experience diagnosing and treating conditions such as COPD.  Call (210) 599-4086 to schedule an appointment at our primary care office in Live Oak, TX.

COPD Symptoms

Many of the signs and symptoms associated with COPD are easy to brush off as a normal occurrence, but early detection and treatment of COPD can make an incredible difference in the life of a patient. Typical COPD symptoms include:

  • Frequent coughing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing
  • Tightness within the chest
  • Increasing degrees of breathlessness

Causes of COPD

Most chronic lung diseases are caused by a history of smoking, but this is not the sole contributor to these types of conditions. It is possible for persons who have never smoked nor been exposed to such pollutants to get COPD.

Environmental and genetic factors can also play a large role in an individual’s potential to develop a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment near San Antonio

In order to determine the current functionality of your lungs, Dr. Nguyen will likely run a few tests. Most often, a spirometry test is administered. This simple, non-invasive test is used to measure the abilities of the lungs, which will help to conclude whether or not a patient has COPD.

Once the patient’s condition has been properly assessed, a primary care doctor will determine the appropriate method of treatment. Those who do smoke will be urged to quit, and a variety of medications are often prescribed to help with symptoms of the patient’s chronic lung disease.

In more severe cases, particularly for those with emphysema, surgery may be considered. It is important to weigh each and every treatment option carefully, and to discuss all major factors with your primary care doctor before beginning a new form of treatment.


Schedule an Appointment near San Antonio

Do you have additional questions on COPD diagnosis or treatment?  Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Nguyen by calling (210) 599-4086.

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