Pulmonology / Pneumology
It is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs, resulting in insufficient supply of oxygen to the body.
It is usually caused by smoking and other toxic substances such as pollutants. It causes a blockage in the bronchi (chronic bronchitis) and a worsening state of the lungs (emphysema).
Treatment characteristics
What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease? What are the symptoms?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, also known as COPD, consists of lung damage caused by inhalation of various fumes/gases (chemicals, cigarette, environmental pollution…) leading to breathing difficulties and potentially death.
Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are the two (2) most common common conditions that contribute to COPD.
The most common symptoms are:
- Cough and increased phlegm production, usually upon getting up in the morning
- Wheezing (noisy breathing)
- Fatigue
What is the treatment?
After carrying out the corresponding diagnostic tests (spirometry, lung volumes, arterial blood gas analysis, stress test), our specialists will give you the specific plan of action for your case.
Usually, the treatments are divided according to the gravity or the evolution of the disease.
Getting in control
Change your habits: quit cigarette smoking, do sports, eat healthy food
Pharmacological Treatment
A decrease in lung capacity requires the use of inhalers. Bronchodilators, corticosteroids and/or anticholinergics can be prescribed.
Surgical Treatment
If the disease is already in advanced stage, the specialists can prescribe a surgical intervention for the patient.
Bullectomy
removal of “air spaces or bubbles (bullae)” in the lungs. These bullae can become very large and can cause breathing problems. This surgery improves lung function and reduces fatigue.
Lung Volume Reduction Surgery (LVRS)
removal of small portions of damaged lung tissue to improve pulmonary function.
Lung Transplant
Replacing one or both lungs from a suitable donor.
Therapeutic Options:
Oxygen therapy
Home Noninvasive Ventilation (Home-NIV)
Exercise
What is the result of the treatment?
Unfortunately, COPD is a chronic disease and has no cure. But if you follow the indications given by our specialists, you can improve the quality of your life.
What recovery time do I need in Spain?
The length of your stay will depend on the gravity of the disease, ranging from a few weeks to three (3) or four (4) months (in the case of a lung transplant).
Treatment itinerary
Before treatment
- Check that you have prepared all the personal documentation (credit card, cash, passport, Identity Card…), medical (reports, prescriptions, images…) and travel (confirmation of accommodation booking, travel tickets…)
- If you take medication of any kind not related to the surgery, do not forget to take with you the necessary amount for your stay in Spain, as well as the medical prescription that will allow you to travel with it without problems.
- When you come to Spain, be aware that you already have a treatment plan that will begin immediately upon your arrival at the clinic.
During treatment
- Once you are in Spain, you will have to make an appointment with your specialist to review your medical record and treatment plan.
- During this visit, the doctor will open your medical record (for which you will be asked to provide all your medical documentation), perform a physical examination and tell you if any further tests are needed to confirm the treatment.
After treatment
- When the treatment in Spain is finished, our professionals provide a series of guidelines to continue your therapy at home.
- Remember that your recovery time will vary depending on your age, your physical condition, your lifestyle habits and your attitude!
- Keep in mind that your successful recovery also depends on you!
Why Spain?
In Spain you will find surgery with the most advanced technology.
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