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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is comprised primarily of two related diseases: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. In both diseases, there is chronic obstruction of the flow of air through the airways and out of the lungs, and the obstruction generally is permanent and progressive over time.
Sentara Home Care Services believes people with COPD can lead active and full lives. By diagnosing the disease early, treating symptoms, reducing the risk of complications, and educating patients and families about COPD, our home care staff aim to improve patients' quality of life. Our goal is to help people with COPD take charge of their breathing and regain or maintain control of their lives by becoming actively involved in the management of their disease.
Some patients with COPD may benefit from oxygen therapy . Oxygen therapy is necessary when the blood does not have enough oxygen. Some people with COPD need oxygen only with activity or while sleeping. Many people with COPD need oxygen all the time (24-hours-a-day).
Oxygen saturation levels can be measured with a small device that fits over the fingertip (called a pulse oximeter). This is done while the patient is are resting and walking. These measures can determine the best oxygen settings to use for rest, sleep and activity. To achieve the most benefit, patients need to use their oxygen exactly as prescribed.
Sentara Home Care Services’ pulmonary rehabilitation program, which addresses the needs of each person and tailors the treatment to meet those needs, includes:
 Medical and nursing management
Education
Physical conditioning
Nutrition counseling
Consideration of psychological and social needs
For more information about our COPD Program, or to arrange care for a patient or a family member, call (757) 549-7755 or (888) 461-5649.
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