Understanding COPD
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At Garg Hospital, East Delhi, our Pulmonology Department is led by Dr. Sanjay Garg, a trusted expert in the diagnosis and treatment of lung and respiratory diseases. From chronic conditions like asthma, COPD, and bronchitis to advanced care for pneumonia, tuberculosis, and post-COVID complications, Dr. Garg offers comprehensive respiratory care tailored to each patient. Equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and a patient-first approach, our department is committed to helping East Delhi residents breathe easier and live healthier. If you’re looking for a reliable lung specialist in East Delhi, trust the expertise of Dr. Sanjay Garg and the dedicated team at Garg Hospital.
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COPD: The Silent Lung Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore — A Guide by Garg Hospital, East Delhi
Breathing is something most of us take for granted—until it becomes difficult. If you’ve been dealing with a lingering cough, breathlessness, or constant fatigue, it’s time to take your symptoms seriously. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the most underdiagnosed yet dangerous respiratory conditions, especially common in urban areas like East Delhi, where air quality and smoking-related issues are on the rise.
At Garg Hospital, Karkardooma, our senior pulmonologist Dr. Sanjay Garg sees many patients who arrive late, unaware that their minor symptoms were early warnings of something much more serious. In this blog, we break down what COPD is, how to catch it early, and what tests you need to stay ahead of it.
What is COPD? Know the Early Warning Signs Before It’s Too Late
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a progressive and irreversible lung condition that gradually damages the lungs and reduces airflow. While it cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively if diagnosed in time—which is why early detection is crucial.
Early Symptoms You Should NEVER Ignore:
Many people ignore the early signs, assuming it’s just a “seasonal cough” or “weakness due to age.” But at Garg Hospital, East Delhi, we’ve seen how delaying diagnosis can lead to serious complications. Look out for:
Persistent cough lasting more than 3 months
Excess mucus/phlegm, especially in the morning (often white or yellow)
Shortness of breath, even with light activity like walking or climbing stairs
Wheezing – a whistling sound while breathing
Frequent chest infections like bronchitis or pneumonia
As COPD advances, symptoms worsen:
Everyday tasks become tiring—even changing clothes or sitting up
You may experience shortness of breath after minimal effort
Constant fatigue, even after rest
Unexplained weight loss
Swelling in ankles or feet, which may signal reduced oxygen or added strain on the heart
If you live in or around Karkardooma, Preet Vihar, Anand Vihar, or Shahdara, and have noticed any of these signs, we urge you to consult a lung specialist near you. Early diagnosis can change the course of this disease.
How Is COPD Diagnosed? The Test That Can Help You Breathe Easier
If you’ve been dealing with breathlessness, a chronic cough, or excessive phlegm, it’s not enough to wait and watch. At Garg Hospital in Karkardooma, East Delhi, our pulmonology team, led by Dr. Sanjay Garg, uses simple, effective tools to detect COPD early—before it takes a toll on your daily life.
The Spirometry Test: A Simple Test That Can Save Your Lungs
The first and most important test to diagnose COPD is spirometry. It’s a non-invasive, painless test that takes just a few minutes.
Here’s how it works:
You’ll be asked to take a deep breath and blow forcefully into a device called a spirometer.
The machine measures how much air your lungs can hold and how quickly you can exhale.
If there’s any blockage or reduced airflow, it could be a sign of COPD or other lung conditions.
This test is available at Garg Hospital’s Pulmonology Department, where we use advanced spirometry machines to ensure quick, accurate diagnosis.
Additional Tests to Confirm or Understand COPD Severity
Sometimes, more detailed tests are recommended:
Chest X-ray: To rule out infections or lung cancer
CT Scan: Helps detect emphysema and assess lung damage
Blood Tests: To check oxygen levels and rule out other conditions
Exercise (Stress) Test: To evaluate how your lungs respond under physical activity
These tests help our doctors create a personalized treatment plan, especially for patients in high-risk zones like East Delhi, where pollution levels can worsen lung health.
Why Early Diagnosis is a Lifesaver
Too often, people mistake COPD symptoms for “normal aging” or “just fatigue.” But early diagnosis can make all the difference.
If COPD is caught early:
Treatment can begin sooner, helping slow the disease
Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking or using air purifiers are more effective
You can preserve your lung capacity and enjoy a better quality of life
If you’re above 40, a smoker, or have long-term exposure to Delhi NCR’s air pollution, we strongly recommend a routine lung function checkup.
Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. At Garg Hospital, we’re here to help you breathe better, live better.
Diagnosed with COPD? Here’s How to Live Better and Breathe Easier
A diagnosis of COPD can feel overwhelming, whether it’s for you or a loved one. But here’s the good news: with the right care, medications, and daily habits, it is absolutely possible to live a fulfilling life.
At Garg Hospital, Karkardooma, our approach under Dr. Sanjay Garg focuses not just on treating the disease, but on empowering patients and families to manage COPD long-term.
Inhalers: Your Lifeline to Easier Breathing
The most common and effective treatment for COPD starts with inhalers. These are not ordinary medicines—they’re precision tools that open up the lungs and help you breathe easier.
There are two types:
Rescue inhalers – provide quick relief during episodes of breathlessness
Maintenance inhalers – used daily to keep symptoms under control
✅ Important Tip: Using your inhaler the right way is just as important as the medication itself. Our team at Garg Hospital ensures every patient is trained on the correct inhaler technique during treatment.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Strengthening Your Lungs
Along with medication, Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a key part of COPD care. It’s a structured program designed to:
Improve lung efficiency through breathing exercises
Build stamina with supervised physical training
Educate you on energy conservation techniques, mental well-being, and lifestyle changes
Although Pulmonary Rehab centers are still growing in India, Garg Hospital offers personalized guidance, including respiratory physiotherapy, home-based exercises, and counselling to help patients lead an active life even with limited lung function.
Stop Smoking. Immediately.
If you’re still smoking—even occasionally—it’s time to stop. Smoking is the number one cause of COPD worsening, and no medication can work if your lungs are constantly under attack from smoke.
At Garg Hospital, we offer smoking cessation support, including nicotine replacement therapy, counselling, and step-by-step help to break free from tobacco addiction.
Daily Life with COPD: What You Can Do
Living well with COPD means making small but important changes in your daily routine. Here’s what our patients in East Delhi are advised:
Plan activities to conserve energy
Take regular rest breaks during chores
Avoid exposure to smoke, dust, and strong smells
Keep your home ventilated but dust-free
Use a humidifier if the air is too dry
Get vaccinated for flu and pneumonia to prevent complications
These habits can reduce flare-ups and help you stay in control.
Nutrition for Stronger Lungs
Did you know your diet plays a big role in managing COPD? Many patients struggle with poor appetite, weight loss, or fatigue. Here’s how you can stay healthy:
Eat small, frequent meals to avoid breathlessness while eating
Include high-protein foods like dal, eggs, or paneer
Drink enough water (unless your doctor advises fluid restriction)
Cut down on salt if you notice swelling in your feet or ankles
If needed, our nutritionist at Garg Hospital can help you create a customized diet plan that supports lung health and energy levels.
Regular Monitoring is a Must
COPD is a chronic condition, and ongoing monitoring is essential. Keep a symptom diary, note any changes in your breathing, and don’t delay medical visits if symptoms worsen.
At Garg Hospital, we encourage our patients to stay in close touch with Dr. Sanjay Garg and schedule periodic check-ups, so treatment can be adjusted as needed.
