The COPD Comorbidities You Need to Understand

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An older man experiencing COPD comorbidities uses an inhaler.

There are several common COPD comorbidities that are important to know about, watch for, and manage.

Watching a family member manage the daily challenges of COPD isn’t easy. You see them struggle with fatigue and breathlessness, and you want to do anything you can to help. What you may not realize is that COPD often leads to other health conditions, known as COPD comorbidities, which need to be addressed and managed along with COPD. The best way to help someone with COPD is by learning about these possible comorbidities, and then supporting and advocating for the person to obtain screenings and treatment when needed.

Here are some of the most common COPD comorbidities:

  • Sleep Disorders. Sleep problems, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and insomnia, are common in people with COPD. These conditions can cause 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 often medications to improve sleep quality.
  • Cardiovascular Diseases. One of the most common comorbidities your loved one might face is cardiovascular disease. People with COPD are at a higher likelihood of developing conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and ischemic heart disease. The reasons for this elevated risk include shared factors like smoking, systemic inflammation, and also the strain that reduced oxygen levels put on the heart. Regular cardiovascular examinations and proactive management of heart health are vital for their well-being.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). GERD, a digestive disorder where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach, is frequently found in people with COPD. The chronic coughing associated with COPD can exacerbate GERD symptoms, and vice versa. Effective management includes dietary adjustments, medications to reduce gastric acid, and changes in lifestyle like elevating the head during sleep.
  • Lung Cancer. COPD significantly raises 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 because of chronic inflammation and injury to lung tissue. Routine screenings for lung cancer, especially in smokers and former smokers, are important for early detection and improved outcomes.
  • Depression and Anxiety. Mental health conditions, particularly anxiety and depression, are common among people with COPD. The chronic nature of the disease, the physical limitations it imposes, as well as the fear of breathlessness can all contribute to psychological distress. It’s important for health care providers to routinely screen for these conditions and offer appropriate interventions like support groups, counseling, and medications to help your loved one manage their mental health alongside their COPD.
  • Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, characterized by weakened bones, is prevalent in individuals with COPD. Factors adding to this include long-term use of corticosteroids, reduced exercise, and systemic inflammation. This increases the risk of fractures, complicating the person’s health. Preventive steps include bone density screenings, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, weight-bearing exercises, and sometimes medications to strengthen bones.
  • Diabetes. Diabetes is another condition often seen alongside COPD. The link between the two is thought to be associated with systemic inflammation and the impact of corticosteroid use, common in COPD treatment, on blood sugar levels. Managing diabetes requires close monitoring of blood glucose levels, dietary modifications, and sometimes adjustments in medication to make certain both conditions are adequately controlled.
How CareWorks Health Services Can Help

If someone you love is managing COPD and its comorbidities, CareWorks Health Services is here to help. Our trained and experienced care team is an essential component of a better quality of life for seniors with chronic illnesses. Reach out to us today at (949) 859-4700 to schedule a free in-home consultation to learn more about our senior care services in Huntington Beach, Mission Viejo, Seal Beach, and throughout Orange County.