Authored by Henderson Pulmonology
Serving Henderson and the Las Vegas Valley – Accepting New Patients
November is COPD Awareness Month, a time dedicated to bringing attention to one of the most common yet underdiagnosed lung conditions in the United States. At Henderson Pulmonology, we see firsthand how Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) affects patients and families throughout Henderson and the Las Vegas Valley. Our goal is to educate our community about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available so that individuals can take proactive steps toward better lung health and improved quality of life.
What is COPD?
COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, refers to a group of progressive lung diseases that make it difficult to breathe. The most common types are chronic bronchitis and emphysema. These conditions develop over time, often due to exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, environmental pollutants, and workplace chemicals.
In COPD, the airways become inflamed and narrowed, and the tiny air sacs in the lungs lose their elasticity. This leads to airflow obstruction, making it difficult to fully exhale air from the lungs. As a result, oxygen exchange becomes less efficient, causing fatigue, breathlessness, and frequent coughing.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, and millions more may have it without knowing. Early detection and treatment are key to slowing its progression.
COPD Symptoms to Watch For
Because COPD develops gradually, symptoms often go unnoticed until significant lung damage has occurred. Common signs include:
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
- Chronic cough that produces mucus
- Wheezing or tightness in the chest
- Fatigue or decreased exercise tolerance
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Swelling in ankles, feet, or legs (in advanced cases)
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a pulmonary evaluation with Dr. Kevin Tsui. At Henderson Pulmonology, we offer comprehensive Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) in our office to measure how well your lungs are working. These tests help confirm a diagnosis and guide personalized treatment plans.
COPD Risk Factors
The most significant risk factor for COPD is tobacco smoking. In fact, up to 75% of COPD cases are linked to a history of smoking. However, non-smokers can also develop COPD due to:
- Long-term exposure to air pollution
- Occupational dust and chemical fumes
- Secondhand smoke
- Genetic factors such as Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
- Childhood respiratory infections that cause lasting lung damage
Residents in Southern Nevada, including Henderson and Las Vegas, face unique environmental challenges. Our desert climate can worsen respiratory symptoms due to dust, pollen, wildfire smoke, and seasonal air quality fluctuations. Understanding these triggers is a vital step in protecting your lungs year-round.
Diagnosing COPD: Pulmonary Function Tests
A Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) is one of the most important diagnostic tools for COPD. This non-invasive test measures how much air you can breathe in and out, and how efficiently your lungs deliver oxygen to your bloodstream.
At Henderson Pulmonology, Dr. Kevin Tsui and our team perform these tests onsite in a comfortable, supportive environment. Results help determine the severity of COPD and guide next steps, including medication management, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
How COPD is Treated
While there is no cure for COPD, it can be managed effectively. With the right combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and ongoing monitoring, patients can significantly improve their breathing and maintain active, fulfilling lives.
1. Smoking Cessation
Quitting smoking is the single most important step you can take to slow the progression of COPD. We work closely with patients to provide smoking cessation support, counseling, and treatment resources.
2. Medications
Inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids are commonly prescribed to open airways and reduce inflammation. For some patients, combination inhalers are recommended for more consistent symptom control.
3. Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a structured program that combines exercise, education, and breathing techniques to improve lung function and endurance. Henderson Pulmonology often refers patients to local programs that specialize in respiratory health and physical conditioning.
4. Oxygen Therapy
For patients with advanced COPD, supplemental oxygen can help improve oxygen levels and reduce strain on the heart and lungs.
5. Vaccinations and Preventive Care
Because COPD increases vulnerability to infections, staying up to date on flu shots, pneumonia vaccines, and COVID-19 boosters is critical. Preventing respiratory infections can reduce hospitalizations and improve long-term outcomes.
Living with COPD in Southern Nevada
The desert environment in Southern Nevada poses special challenges for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. Dry air, dust storms, and wildfire smoke can all worsen COPD symptoms. Here are a few tips for protecting your lungs year-round:
- Monitor air quality using apps or local weather alerts and stay indoors on high-pollution days.
- Use an air purifier at home to reduce indoor pollutants.
- Stay hydrated to keep airways moist and prevent irritation.
- Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, strong fragrances, and cleaning chemicals.
- Wear a mask when doing outdoor chores such as yard work or sweeping.
- Exercise indoors during hot or windy days to prevent flare-ups.
Our team at Henderson Pulmonology can provide personalized recommendations for managing COPD based on your lifestyle and environment.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Many people dismiss early COPD symptoms as part of aging or a lingering cough from a cold. Unfortunately, this delay in diagnosis can allow the disease to progress to a more severe stage before treatment begins.
Early diagnosis through lung testing in Henderson can make all the difference. If detected early, patients can begin medication, lifestyle changes, and preventive care that significantly improve prognosis and reduce hospital visits.
If you are over 40, have a history of smoking, or are exposed to environmental irritants, consider asking your doctor for a Pulmonary Function Test.
How Henderson Pulmonology Can Help
At Henderson Pulmonology, our mission is to help patients breathe easier and live better. Led by Dr. Kevin Tsui, our practice provides compassionate, expert care for all types of lung conditions, including COPD, asthma, and chronic cough.
We offer:
- Comprehensive diagnostic testing including Pulmonary Function Tests
- Personalized treatment plans based on your health and lifestyle
- Education and support for long-term disease management
- Collaboration with your primary care provider to ensure continuity of care. Don’t have a primary care provider? Check out Coronado Health Direct Primary Care!
Our office proudly serves patients from Henderson, Las Vegas, Green Valley, and surrounding areas.
Request an Appointment
November is COPD Awareness Month, but every day is an opportunity to take control of your lung health. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with COPD or simply want to understand your breathing better, we’re here to help.
Request an appointment with Dr. Kevin Tsui. Let’s work together to help you breathe easier and live stronger.
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