Firewood smoke just as harmful as cigarette smoke

There are close to 30 million Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease patients in India, and the number is only increasing. Dr Ramana Prasad V Velamuru, Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist Respiratory Intensivist and Sleep Specialist at KIMS Hospitals, Hyderabad, gives a quick insight into a fast becoming common lung disease 

 There has been a rise in the percentage of people suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in India. Why so?

 Yes, there has been a rise. It is so because of three major reasons. One is that cigarette smoking has been on a rise. Second reason is that of Biomass utilization in cooking. Third, there has been a tremendous increase in the pollution level, due to both regular and industrial activities such as fuel consumption, construction activities, etc.

These are also prime factors for the cause of COPD.

 What are the symptoms of COPD?

Breathlessness on exertion is the main symptom of COPD. Usually when someone is suffering from COPD, he does not display breathlessness in a sitting posture. But the moment the patient walks or exerts pressure, the symptoms show up.

Some other symptoms include persistent cough, repeated sputum production and rrecurrent lung infection. Over the period of time, swelling of legs and face also occur due to involvement of heart.These symptoms progressively increases with age.

 What simple steps can one take to avoid being affected by COPD?

Quitting cigarette smoking is helpful. Passive smoking is also harmful; hence, that should also be prevented. Keeping away from in-house allergens, firewood smoking and incense sticks also is crucial in avoiding COPD. Also, one must use protection from vehicle production.

 What are the various forms of treatment available for COPD?

There are various forms of treatment. Several types of inhalers are available for the treatment purpose. Bronchodilators make breathing easier. Mucolytic drugs are used for making the phlegm watery. Home oxygen is sometimes useful for end stage COPD. Non-invasive ventilation with Bipap, Adult Vaccination are some other forms of COPD treatment. 

 What are the latest scientific/technical advancements in the field of Pulmonology?

There are new methods to diagnose the respiratory conditions which were not possible earlier. EBUS - Endobronchial Ultrasound Bronchoscopy (EBUS) is a new procedure for the diagnosis of lung cancer, infections and other issues related to the chest. Medical Thoracoscopy is another important treatment devised recently.

 Where according to you is the future of Pulmonology headed?

A lot of new procedures are in the pipeline. Navigation Bronchoscopy is the latest modality to diagnose lung tumor type. Robotic Surgery will also give way to better diagnosis and treatment of the Respiratory diseases. For Asthma, Thermoplasty is yet another form of treatment in which the tissue is burned.

For Appointments : Dr Ramana Prasad V Velamuru, Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist Respiratory Intensivist and Sleep Specialist at KIMS Hospitals, Hyderabad,