Lung damage caused by COPD is irreversible. However, treatment is available to ease symptoms and reduce damage to the lungs. A doctor will evaluate the condition and suggest suitable treatment options, such as:
- Stop smoking, which is the most important measure to slow disease progression and increase the patient's rate of survival
- Home oxygen therapy for severe COPD as blood oxygen can be constantly low. Oxygen is supplied by using an oxygen concentrator or oxygen tanks
- Lung transplant for extreme COPD cases
- Lung volume reduction surgery to remove the diseased part of the lung for certain patients (ie. those who suffer from emphysema)
- Medication, such as inhalers and tablets to help open the airways, and antibiotics and steroids to reduce swelling of the airways
- Pulmonary rehabilitation for those with severe COPD. This involves physical exercises, patient education, dietary guidance and psychological counselling
- Yearly flu vaccines, such as vaccination against pneumococcus (most common cause of pneumonia)