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The Natural Treatment
Our Program Addresses the Most Common Issues Faced by COPD and Chronic Lung Disease
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is used to describe a variety of conditions, such as Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema, Pulmonary Fibrosis, and Sarcoidosis. These conditions involve inflammation or damage to the lungs that limit their ability to supply the body with oxygen. Usually these conditions are progressive, meaning that they get worse over time. According to the American Lung Association, approximately 14 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, but millions more may have the disease without knowing it.
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Chronic inflammatory lung disease may be the result of smoking, exposure to toxins, chronic bronchitis, or other causes.
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How is COPD Diagnosed and Monitored
COPD is diagnosed with spirometry and pulse oximetry testing. Spirometry is a very easy breathing test where the patient blows into a tube. The spirometer measures the volume of air moved by the lungs.
Pulse oximetry testing is a noninvasive method for measuring the amount of oxygen in the blood.
A 6 minute walk test is another assessment used with COPD patients to determine a baseline measurement of stamina.
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COPD Stages
There are four stages of COPD which are defined by the amount or volume of air a person breathes out in the first second of forced exhalation.
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In Stage I, COPD is considered mild and a person may not be aware that lung function is beginning to decline.
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In Stage II, considered moderate, you may notice shortness of breath during/after physical exertion as symptoms outlined above progress.
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In Stage III, considered severe COPD, exacerbations are common and shortness of breath continues to worsen. Exacerbations are flare-ups characterized by tightness in the chest and extreme shortness of breath; in some cases it may be necessary to use a bronchodilator inhaler or other fast-acting treatment.
In Stage IV, considered extremely severe, exacerbations may be life-threatening and your quality of life may suffer greatly.
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A 2017 study from the New England Journal of Medicine stresses the importance of early treatment of COPD. This research found that, over time, those living with even stage 1 COPD who were treated early had better outcomes than those who delayed treatment.
For patients with complications
TCM views the body as one whole unit based on the five element theory. The lung structure and function can affect other organs and at the same time, other organs can also affect the lungs. Many late stage chronic lung disease patients may develop complications such as:
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congestive heart failure
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extreme edema
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lung infections
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digestive tract issues
These complications can be the result of the chronic lung disease, however, most of those complications may also worsen the lung condition.
Approaches Dr. Underwood Utilizes:
Comprehensive History
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Comprehensive evaluation of respiratory health and related medical history with blood chemistry laboratory testing creating s functional health report
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Identification of underlying causes of respiratory issues (e.g., chronic inflammation, lung function impairment, or mucus buildup)
Nutritional and Lifestyle Counseling
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Recommendations on dietary adjustments to support respiratory health, focusing on anti-inflammatory and lung-supportive nutrition
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Guidance on lifestyle changes to reduce respiratory triggers, including smoking cessation, air quality improvement, and stress management
Functional Medicine Approach
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Application of functional medicine principles to address root causes of respiratory conditions
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Use of diagnostic tools to monitor biomarkers related to lung function and overall respiratory system health
Herbal Medicine
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The herbal supplements prescribed are exceptionally high grade
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The herbs can work together with your existing prescription medications
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Guidance on integrating these products into treatment plans
Respiratory Therapy and Techniques
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Education on proper breathing techniques to improve oxygen intake and support lung function
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Recommendations for practices such as diaphragmatic breathing and mindfulness exercises to enhance respiratory efficiency
Holistic Health Promotion
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Integration of mind-body approaches to improve overall well-being and lung health, including stress reduction techniques and physical activity recommendations
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Emphasis on holistic healing to address interconnected health issues contributing to respiratory conditions
Highlighted Herbs in the Therapy
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product and program is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Contact
Dr. Bruce Underwood's Office to Find Out More!
Located in Indian Wells, CA