COPD Specialist

Michael N. Newton MD Our Services COPD

Michael N. Newton MD

Pulmonology & Sleep Specialists located in Tampa, FL

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that makes it more difficult for you to breathe as time goes by. At the office of Michael N. Newton MD, in Tampa, Florida, Dr. Newton offers expert treatments to manage COPD, aiming to help you breathe easily and restore your quality of life. If you’re concerned about COPD, call the office or make an appointment online today.

COPD Q & A

What is COPD?

COPD describes several incurable and progressive lung diseases that make it difficult for you to breathe, such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and asthma. COPD usually becomes more severe over time. However, with customized medical care, you can manage your symptoms and maintain a healthy and active life. 

What are the symptoms of COPD?

Two of the most common signs of COPD are shortness of breath and coughing, both of which are frequently dismissed as symptoms of aging. COPD may also cause:

  • Wheezing
  • Tightness in your chest
  • Breathlessness

COPD symptoms usually get worse over time, so you may notice that your breathlessness or shortness of breath increases or your coughing and wheezing gets worse. 

If you develop any of these symptoms, make an appointment with Dr. Newton for lung function tests. Many people live with undiagnosed COPD for years and end up living with more severe symptoms than they would have if they had started treatment earlier. 

What causes COPD?

Many factors contribute to COPD. However, the most prevalent cause of COPD is smoking. If you smoke, you inhale over 7,000 chemicals into your lungs, which destroy your air sacs, cause swelling, and decrease your defense against infections. 

Additionally, exposure to pollution, second-hand smoke, dust, and chemicals can also lead to COPD. Asthma also has genetic factors, although smoking and airborne irritants exacerbate asthma symptoms. 

How is COPD treated?

Dr. Newton begins with lung function tests such as spirometry to measure the volume of air entering and leaving your lungs. When he understands the extent of your condition, Dr. Newton provides customized treatments to help you breathe. 

Dr. Newton may prescribe medication such as bronchodilators to relax the muscles in your airways so air can move in and out of your lungs more easily. Bronchodilators are usually in the form of an inhaler or nebulizer. You may also take oral corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

Dr. Newton may also recommend oxygen therapy to ensure your body gets enough oxygen. Supplemental oxygen is available from portable units with a nasal cannula or mask.

For the expert treatment of COPD, call Michael N. Newton MD, or make an appointment online today.

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