September 23, 2024 by
Watching a loved one manage the daily challenges of COPD can be tough. You see them struggle with breathlessness and fatigue, and you want to do everything you can to help. What you might not realize is that there are other COPD-related health complications, known as comorbidities, which need to be addressed and managed in tandem with COPD. The best way to help someone with COPD is by learning about these potential comorbidities, and then supporting and advocating for the person to receive screenings and treatment as needed.
Here are some of the most common COPD comorbidities:
- Cardiovascular Diseases. One of the most common comorbidities your family member might face is cardiovascular disease. People with COPD are at a higher risk of developing conditions such as heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and hypertension. The reasons for this increased risk include shared factors like smoking, systemic inflammation, and the strain that reduced oxygen levels place on the heart. Regular cardiovascular screenings and proactive management of heart health are vital for their well-being.
- Diabetes. Diabetes is another condition frequently seen alongside COPD. The link between the two is thought to be related to systemic inflammation and the impact of corticosteroid use, common in COPD treatment, on blood sugar levels. Managing diabetes requires careful monitoring of blood glucose levels, dietary modifications, and sometimes adjustments in medication to ensure both conditions are adequately controlled.
- Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, characterized by weakened bones, is prevalent in individuals with COPD. Factors contributing to this include long-term use of corticosteroids, reduced physical activity, and systemic inflammation. This increases the risk of fractures, complicating the person’s health. Preventive measures include bone density screenings, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, weight-bearing exercises, and sometimes medications to strengthen bones.
- Anxiety and Depression. Mental health conditions, particularly anxiety and depression, are common among people with COPD. The chronic nature of the disease, the physical limitations it imposes, and the fear of breathlessness can all contribute to psychological distress. It’s essential for healthcare providers to routinely screen for these conditions and offer appropriate interventions such as counseling, medications, and support groups to help the person manage their mental health alongside their COPD.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). GERD, a digestive disorder where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach, is often found in individuals with COPD. The chronic coughing associated with COPD can exacerbate GERD symptoms, and vice versa. Effective management includes dietary adjustments, medications to reduce stomach acid, and lifestyle changes like elevating the head during sleep.
- Lung Cancer. COPD significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer. The shared primary risk factor of smoking is a significant contributor, but COPD itself is an independent risk factor due to chronic inflammation and damage to lung tissue. Regular screenings for lung cancer, especially in smokers and former smokers, are essential for early detection and improved outcomes.
- Sleep Disorders. Sleep disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and insomnia, are common in people with COPD. These conditions can lead to fragmented sleep, further contributing to fatigue and decreased quality of life. Management strategies may include the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, lifestyle modifications, and sometimes medications to improve sleep quality.
How At Home Independent Living Can Help
If someone you love is managing COPD and COPD-related health complications, At Home Independent Living is here to help. Our trained and experienced care team is a key component of a better quality of life for those with chronic health conditions. Contact us today at (315) 579-HOME (4663) to schedule a free in-home consultation to learn more about our home care services in Syracuse, Salina, Fayetteville, and throughout Central New York.