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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Breathe easier if you have COPD, a disease that leaves you winded and worn out. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
- Steer clear of smoke
Kick the smoking habit, and avoid secondhand smoke and other respiratory irritants
- Get to know NAC
Take 200 mg of the supplement N-acetyl cysteine three times a day to help break down mucus and supply antioxidant protection to lung tissue
- Add L-carnitine to your fitness routine
Improve breathing during exercise by taking 2 grams of this nutritional supplement twice a day
- Find relief with ivy leaf
Ease symptoms naturally by taking 50 drops of a concentrated alcohol extract twice a day
Also indexed as:
- chronic bronchitis,
- chronic obstructive lung disease,
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD),
- chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases,
- COPD,
- emphysema
About this treatment
About This Condition
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to the combination of chronic bronchitis and emphysema, resulting in obstruction of airways and poor oxygen transport in the lungs, respectively.
Although chronic bronchitis and emphysema are distinct conditions, smokers and former smokers often have aspects of both. In chronic bronchitis, the linings of the bronchial tubes are inflamed and thickened, leading to a chronic, mucus-producing cough and shortness of breath. In emphysema, the alveoli (tiny air sacs in the lungs) are damaged, also leading to shortness of breath. COPD is generally irreversible and may even be fatal.
Symptoms
Symptoms of COPD develop gradually and may initially include shortness of breath during exertion, wheezing especially when exhaling, and frequent coughing that produces variable amounts of mucus. In more advanced stages, people may experience rapid changes in the ability to breathe, shortness of breath at rest, fatigue, depression, memory problems, confusion, and frequent waking during sleep.
Holistic Options
Negative ions may counteract the allergenic effects of positively charged ions on respiratory tissues and potentially ease symptoms of allergic bronchitis, according to preliminary research.
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
Learn more about Aisle7, the company.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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