We provide in-home care for Michigan residents with COPD. We offer help with nursing and care to provide the best treatment possible for your loved ones with COPD. (COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.) COPD is a progressive disease, which means that it gets worse over time. In fact, over time many with COPD will have difficulty breathing when doing even basic activities, such as walking, cooking or showering. Individuals with COPD may cough up large amounts of mucus, may wheeze when breathing, and may experience shortness of breath and a tight feeling in the chest. COPD is not contagious, however, and cannot be passed from person to person.

Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of COPD, but long-term exposure to other lung irritants – such as air pollution, chemical fumes and dust – can also contribute to COPD.

COPD is a major cause of disability and the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. More than 12 million Americans are currently diagnosed with COPD, and it is estimated that an additional 12 million have the disease but don’t know it yet. As COPD progresses, the individual may become prone to frequent colds and flu. Symptoms of COPD include:

• An ongoing cough or a cough that produces a lot of mucus (sometimes called ‘smoker’s cough’)
• Shortness of breath, especially with any activity
• Wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound when the client breathes)
• Chest tightness

Unfortunately there is no cure for COPD at this time, but physicians will work with the individual to treat the symptoms and to slow the progression of the disease.

Compassionate Care caregivers are trained to watch for signs of distress that may require hospitalization or follow-up with the client’s physician. They will also be trained on Oxygen safety.