Patient's question:
Recently, I've been experiencing chest pain and tightness in my chest. The hospital examination indicated a respiratory disease, but the medication hasn't been very effective. Recently, my cough has worsened. How can chronic obstructive pulmonary disease be treated?Doctor's answer:
Quitting smoking can slow down the decline in lung function and is currently the most effective intervention for COPD. It's never too late to quit, and the earlier, the better. For COPD stabilization, adhering to long-term, regular treatment with bronchodilators is the most effective pharmacological approach. In terms of medication, aerosol inhalation therapy should be prioritized. It is essential to master the "four-character mantra" of "moisten," "turn," "pat," and "cough" to promote the thinning of sputum, facilitate its expulsion, and prevent alveolar atrophy and atelectasis.