Mr. Nam required non-invasive ventilation, oxygen support, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and bronchodilators, combined with nutrition and rehabilitation exercises at Tam Anh General Hospital. He is now past the critical stage.

Master of Science, Doctor Than Thi Ngoc Lan, from the Respiratory Department, stated that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive chronic illness. Patients require consistent medication and long-term monitoring. Arbitrarily discontinuing medication can result in severe airway obstruction and dangerous acute exacerbations.

Doctor Lan instructs Mr. Nam on breathing exercises for home and advises him to quit smoking. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

For patients experiencing frequent acute exacerbations, the risk of respiratory inflammation and treatment costs increase. Severe cases can be fatal. Patient survival after an acute exacerbation largely depends on the disease's severity.

For COPD patients, treatment protocols often combine medication with therapeutic exercises, such as breathing exercises and coughing techniques, to restore respiratory function. Additionally, quitting smoking and avoiding passive smoke help manage the disease and limit its progression.

Home treatment is applicable for most COPD cases. Doctor Lan recommended that patients strictly follow their treatment plans, not discontinue medication on their own, undergo regular check-ups, and receive recommended vaccinations. If signs of worsening appear, such as increased shortness of breath or coughing, patients should immediately go to a medical facility with a respiratory department for timely care.

Thuy Hanh

*Patient's name has been changed