The respiratory system alters with age, which can increase susceptibility to a variety of diseases. For instance, the lungs lose some of their flexibility, and the muscles that support breathing may weaken. Add in the fact that the immune system becomes less capable of battling infections, and it becomes clear why some seniors struggle with respiratory diseases. Some of the most common conditions are explored below, as well as treatment options that might be considered. Additionally, both elder care and loved ones can closely monitor seniors for changes to ensure any issues are relayed to the medical team right away.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, has two primary conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. The signs that point to COPD are breathing difficulties, which are brought on by narrower or clogged airways; increased mucus production; and damaged lung tissue. Elder care might also notice that seniors have a chronic cough.
While the primary cause of COPD is smoking, chronic exposure to chemicals, dust, and pollutants can also have an impact. Since COPD is a chronic illness, managing it mostly requires symptom treatment and strategies for delaying the progression of the illness. Medications such as steroids and bronchodilators, pulmonary rehabilitation, and oxygen therapy in severe cases are available as treatment options. Additionally, seniors should consider lifestyle changes, such as reducing or eliminating smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.
Pneumonia
Coughing, fever, chills, and trouble breathing can all be symptoms of pneumonia, which is a lung infection that irritates the air sacs and may fill with fluid or pus. Due to compromised immune systems and pre-existing diseases such as diabetes or heart disease, seniors are more susceptible to pneumonia. While influenza-related pneumonia is especially concerning, bacterial pneumonia is the most prevalent kind among the older generation.
Treatment for pneumonia varies depending on what caused it but frequently includes antiviral medications, antibiotics for bacterial infections, and supportive care including oxygen therapy, rest, and fluids.
Asthma
Asthma can emerge later in life, despite being more commonly linked to younger people. Seniors who suffer from asthma may have symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and dyspnea due to allergies, air pollution, cold air, or respiratory infections. Reduced physical activity and age-related changes in lung function can make asthma symptoms worse.
Some treatments that might be considered for asthma include inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, and routine monitoring to avoid flare-ups. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding irritants, and closely collaborating with a healthcare practitioner can all contribute to managing asthma.
Pulmonary Fibrosis
Breathing becomes difficult in pulmonary fibrosis due to scarring and stiffening of the lung tissue. An extended period of exposure to environmental contaminants, certain medications, or radiation therapy can cause this illness, which is more common in seniors than others.
Pulmonary fibrosis symptoms include weariness, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and a chronic dry cough. Even though there is no known cure, there are treatments that can help improve quality of life and delay the progression of the disease. These include oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and medicine.
Although early diagnosis and treatment strategies can help reduce the effects, respiratory diseases can have a major influence on seniors’ quality of life. However, elder care and loved ones can encourage them to live a healthy lifestyle, get routine check-ups, and follow their treatment plans to help manage the conditions they may be faced with.
Sources:
https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/the-16-most-common-respiratory-diseases-for-seniors
https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/risk-factors/older-adults.html
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