The symptoms of a lung condition affecting more than 42,000 people in Northern Ireland is being highlighted by a leading health charity.
Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke (NICHS) is using World COPD Day on Wednesday to make the public more aware of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
COPD is an incurable condition which causes severe breathlessness with more than 42,700 people estimated to be living with it in Northern Ireland.
Many more people are not even aware they have the condition.
Ursula Ferguson, director of Care Services at NICHS, said: “COPD occurs when the lungs become inflamed, damaged, and narrowed and it is the name for a group of conditions, which cause breathing difficulties including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
“COPD is usually associated with long-term exposure to irritants.
“In the majority of cases, smoking is the cause, however, occupational, or environmental factors, such as dust or chemicals can also cause the condition.”
Ms Ferguson said that on World COPD Day the charity is highlighting the symptoms of COPD so that people can recognise if they may have a potential health issue and can seek further help and advice.
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Symptoms of COPD can include:
A persistent cough
Wheezing
Production of mucus or phlegm
Shortness of breath
Chest infections.
Ms Ferguson added: “We would urge anyone who is experiencing these symptoms to contact a medical professional.
“Although COPD cannot be cured, its symptoms can be treated and in turn, quality of life can be improved.
“Respiratory conditions are not always obvious to others and are often referred to as ‘invisible illnesses’.
“Often, people do not realise the impact respiratory conditions like COPD can have on someone’s life, as well as the lives of their families and carers.
“This means they don’t always receive the necessary support and understanding, but Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke is here to help."
She added that NICHS teams are "dedicated to supporting people in adjusting to life with a respiratory condition, helping them to enjoy life to the full, re-engage with hobbies, and improve their confidence, independence, and overall wellbeing".
Please visit www.nichs.org.uk/care-and-support/chest-support for further information.
