What is COPD?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Why is COPD important?
The CDC reports that COPD is the 3rd leading cause of death in America.
What are common symptoms of COPD?
Symptoms may vary with each individual.
– Chronic cough and a need to clear your throat, especially in the morning
– Increased mucus
– Wheezing
– Shortness of Breath
– Fatigue or lack of energy
– Chest tightness
– Swelling in ankles, feet or legs
– Fast heartbeat
– Loss of mental alertness
– Blueness of lips or fingernail beds (cyanosis)
– Frequent respiratory infections and colds
– Unintended weight loss
What risks increase chances of developing COPD?
Smoking and frequent exposure to airborne irritants such as air pollution, dust and fumes.
How can I improve or manage COPD?
– If you smoke, quit.
– Avoid exposure to airborne irritants.
– See your physician for treatment options
specific to your needs.
– See your dentist and focus on your oral hygiene
and dental health.
How can my Tampa Dentist help with COPD?
A COPD patient is at a higher risk for gingivitis, periodontal disease, dry mouth and tooth decay. These oral health conditions cause a worsening of COPD symptoms. Conversely, patients that focus purposefully on their Dental Fitness will better control these symptoms and have fewer flare-ups.
Dental hygiene is important.
Know that oral bacteria is directly linked to respiratory infections, infections in your lungs and airways and a host of other health problems including COPD. Brush your teeth (and tongue) with a soft bristled toothbrush and replace your toothbrush frequently to help limit bacterial growth on the toothbrush and to improve brushing results. Floss daily to help control plaque. Since you will be more susceptible to dental disease, schedule appointments at more frequent intervals to maintain gingival health, manage decay and restore dental breakdown so that you can retain your teeth and control infection.
Ask your dentist about fluoride toothpaste use since increased fluoride may be necessary to help control your increased susceptibility to dental decay. COPD patients will experience dry mouth symptoms that will dehydrate oral tissue. Tissue will be red, irritated and even sore. Dehydration will contribute to gingivitis, periodontal disease and tooth decay. We suggest that patients sip water throughout the day in order to help hydrate oral tissue and stress that frequent dental care is essential. If you are a smoker, know that tobacco use increases the bacterial load in your mouth and will negatively impact your COPD symptoms.
In short, visit your dentist to maintain dental health and you will improve your overall medical health and help to control and even limit your COPD symptoms.
Visit these helpful articles for additional information:
– COPD Dental Health Tips
– Study: Periodontitis can worsen lung condition
