View source for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

== What Does It Mean? ==
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a group of progressive lung diseases that cause airflow obstruction, leading to difficulty breathing, chronic inflammation, and impaired gas exchange. The most common forms of COPD are chronic bronchitis and emphysema, which result from long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, environmental pollutants, and respiratory infections. COPD is characterized by persistent inflammation in the lungs, leading to structural damage, mucus overproduction, and reduced oxygen exchange.

== How Did We Get There? ==

=== Root Causes: ===
• Chronic Inflammation & Oxidative Stress – Persistent lung inflammation damages alveolar tissue, leading to fibrosis and mucus production.

• Environmental Exposures – Long-term exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, and occupational chemicals triggers immune responses that degrade lung tissue.

• Nutrient Deficiencies – Deficiencies in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium contribute to poor lung function and increased inflammation.

• Dysregulated Immune Response – Recurrent infections exacerbate airway inflammation and scarring.

• Poor Mitochondrial Function – Reduced cellular energy production limits the body's ability to repair lung tissue and maintain optimal oxygen utilization.

• Increased Coagulation & Endothelial Dysfunction – Elevated fibrinogen levels contribute to systemic inflammation and increased clot risk.

=== Signs & Symptoms: ===
• Chronic cough with mucus production

• Shortness of breath, especially with exertion

• Wheezing and chest tightness

• Frequent respiratory infections

• Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance

• Cyanosis (bluish skin due to poor oxygenation)

• Unintended weight loss in advanced cases

=== Lab Test Findings ===
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Lab Test Name'''
|'''Expected Changes'''
|'''Optimal Range'''
|-
|C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)
|Increased
|0.00-0.55 mg/L
|-
|Fibrinogen Activity
|Increased
|175.00-300.00 mg/dL
|-
|ProBNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide)
|Increased
|0.00-100.00 pg/mL
|}

== How Do We Treat It? ==

=== Supplement Protocol ===
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Supplement'''
|'''Function'''
|'''Dosage & Frequency'''
|-
|V-Pax
|Supports mitochondrial function and reduces oxidative stress
|2  capsules without food, twice daily
|-
|N-Acetyl Cysteine
|Enhances glutathione production and breaks down mucus
|3 capsules without food, daily
|-
|V-Inflamma
|Reduces systemic inflammation with bioactive turmeric
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Vita-Omega
|Provides EPA & DHA to support lung tissue integrity
|2 capsules with or without food, daily
|-
|Levo Plasmin
|Supports healthy blood flow and reduces clot formation
|2 capsules without food, twice daily
|-
|Magnesium
|Relaxes bronchial muscles and supports respiratory function
|2 capsules with or without food, daily
|-
|Melatonin
|Improves sleep quality and reduces oxidative stress
|1 tablet with or without food, nightly
|}

=== Additional Lifestyle Interventions: ===
• Reduce Environmental Triggers: Avoid smoking, air pollution, and workplace toxins to reduce lung inflammation.

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Engage in structured exercise programs to improve lung capacity and oxygen utilization.

• Breathing Techniques: Implement pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic exercises to enhance oxygen exchange.

• Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Increase intake of antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens) and omega-3 sources (salmon, flaxseeds).

• Manage Stress: Reduce stress-induced inflammation through mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and restorative sleep.

• Monitor for Infections: Prevent respiratory infections through proper hygiene, seasonal vaccinations, and immune support.