LIVING WITH CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE: A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is in the top five leading causes of death. It is a preventableand treatable disease with some significant extra pulmonary effects that may contributeto the severity in individual patients. Health care professional can play a keyrole in educating patients about preventions and self management of COPD. Acase of COPD is presented

Methodology: An 80 years old coal miner, presented with shortness of breath and productive cough. COPD was diagnosed by chest radiograph, Arterial Blood Gases and oxygen saturation. Patient was in third stage of COPD according to Global Obstructive Lung Disease criteria for COPD. Holistic care approach was adopted to manage the case.

Result:  Patient has modified his lifestyle accordingly and achieved better functional status.

Conclusion: COPD can only be treated pharmacologically. A holistic care approach should be used to reduce exacerbations. It is recommended that interdisciplinary approach should be usedto manage such cases.