COPD is diagnosed through a series of assessments. A doctor will take into account the signs and symptoms and clinical presentation of the patient, as well as family history and test results. These tests include lung function test such as spirometry.. Other tests that may be used are Chest X-rays, CT scan of the chest and arterial blood gases. These tests, in addition to helping diagnosing COPD, can determine the severity of the disease process. Lung function tests measure how much air you can breathe in and out, how fast you can breathe air out, and how well your lungs deliver oxygen to your blood. The main test for COPD is spirometry. This test is done with the use of a spirometer in which the patient will blow as hard as they can
…show more content…
It is the most reliable way currently available to test the lungs for the disease. “Spirometry is a safe and practical procedure, and when conducted by a trained operator using a spirometer that provides quality feedback, the majority of patients can be coached to provide acceptable and repeatable results” (John, Walters, & Walters, 2014). Spirometry should be conducted on patients who have asthma and people who smoke or are former smokers especially if they are over 40 years old. The cost of the test is around $40 making it a very inexpensive but extremely effective way to diagnose and treat …show more content…
It damages the airways of the lungs and can lead to shortness of breath which can interfere with completing basic activities of daily living. The disease has become increasingly common and affects millions of Americans. It is currently the third leading cause of death in the U.S. However, COPD is often preventable and treatable. With an appropriately prevention plan, COPD can be managed and exacerbations and hospitalizations can be decreased thus, effectively lowering the cost of the disease and improving the quality of life of the COPD patient. Through education, patients can learn to reduce their risk factors and decrease the progression of the
It is the most reliable way currently available to test the lungs for the disease. “Spirometry is a safe and practical procedure, and when conducted by a trained operator using a spirometer that provides quality feedback, the majority of patients can be coached to provide acceptable and repeatable results” (John, Walters, & Walters, 2014). Spirometry should be conducted on patients who have asthma and people who smoke or are former smokers especially if they are over 40 years old. The cost of the test is around $40 making it a very inexpensive but extremely effective way to diagnose and treat …show more content…
It damages the airways of the lungs and can lead to shortness of breath which can interfere with completing basic activities of daily living. The disease has become increasingly common and affects millions of Americans. It is currently the third leading cause of death in the U.S. However, COPD is often preventable and treatable. With an appropriately prevention plan, COPD can be managed and exacerbations and hospitalizations can be decreased thus, effectively lowering the cost of the disease and improving the quality of life of the COPD patient. Through education, patients can learn to reduce their risk factors and decrease the progression of the