A man uses an inhaler to help with health concerns related to COPD.

Watching an older loved one manage the daily challenges of COPD is not easy. You see them struggle with breathlessness and fatigue, and you want to do everything you can to help. What you may not realize is that there are other health concerns related to COPD, known as comorbidities, which need to be addressed and managed alongside COPD. The best way to help someone with COPD is by learning about these potential comorbidities, and then supporting and advocating for the person to receive screenings and treatment as needed.


Here are some of the most common COPD comorbidities:


  • Cardiovascular Diseases. One of the most common comorbidities your loved one might face is cardiovascular disease. Individuals with COPD are at an increased likelihood of developing conditions such as heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and hypertension. The reasons for this elevated risk include shared factors like smoking, systemic inflammation, as well as the strain that reduced oxygen levels place on the heart. Routine cardiovascular screenings and proactive management of heart health are vital for their well-being.
  • Problems With Sleep. Problems with sleep, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and insomnia, are common in people with COPD. These conditions can lead to fragmented sleep, further adding to fatigue and decreased quality of life. Management strategies may include the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, lifestyle modifications, and sometimes medications to boost sleep quality.
  • Anxiety and Depression. Mental health conditions, particularly depression and anxiety, are common among individuals with COPD. The chronic nature of the disease, the physical limitations it imposes, as well as the fear of breathlessness can all contribute to psychological distress. It is very important for health care providers to regularly screen for these conditions and provide appropriate interventions to help the person manage their mental health alongside their COPD.
  • Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, characterized by weakened bones, is common in individuals with COPD. Factors adding to this include long-term use of corticosteroids, reduced physical activity, and systemic inflammation. This raises the chance of fractures, complicating the person’s health. Preventive actions include bone density screenings, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, weight-bearing exercises, and sometimes medications to strengthen bones.
  • Lung Cancer. COPD considerably increases the likelihood of developing lung cancer. The shared primary risk factor of smoking is a substantial contributor, but COPD itself is an independent risk factor due to chronic inflammation and injury to lung tissue. Routine screenings for lung cancer, especially in smokers and former smokers, are important for early detection and improved outcomes.
  • Diabetes. Diabetes is yet another condition often seen alongside COPD. The link between the two is thought to be related to systemic inflammation and the impact of corticosteroid use, common in COPD treatment, on blood sugar. Managing diabetes requires careful monitoring of blood sugar levels, dietary modifications, and sometimes adjustments in medication to make certain both conditions are adequately controlled.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). GERD, a digestive disorder where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach, is frequently found in individuals with COPD. The chronic coughing associated with COPD can exacerbate GERD symptoms, and vice versa. Effective management includes dietary adjustments, medications to reduce gastric acid, and changes in lifestyle like elevating the head while sleeping.


How Traditions Home Health Services Can Help


If someone you love is managing COPD or other health concerns related to COPD, Traditions Home Health Services is here to help. Our trained and experienced caregivers are a key component of a better quality of life for seniors with chronic illnesses.


Call us today at 617-376-3711 to schedule a free in-home consultation to learn more about our senior care services in Boston, North Shore, South Shore, and the surrounding areas in Eastern Massachusetts. We also offer live-in care services available throughout New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, and Massachusetts.