Individuals diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) suffer from a long-term lung condition that progressively worsens over time. What begins as mild symptoms can gradually evolve into serious complications. Throughout the course of this disease, lung function and overall physical well-being decrease. In severe cases, patients may become dependent on the assistance of others even in their daily activities.
COPD: Two variants of pulmonary illness
The characteristic feature of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a restriction in airflow within the respiratory passages due to obstructions that cannot be entirely removed. The diagnosis of COPD thus encompasses two distinct conditions that may occur either independently or in combination.
The first condition is chronic bronchitis, characterized by persistent inflammation of the bronchial tubes, excessive mucus production, and chronic cough. During this condition, the cilia on the inner lining of the airways are damaged, leading to inflammation and constriction (obstruction). This significantly complicates breathing for the affected individuals, impairing oxygen intake and carbon dioxide removal. Insufficient oxygen supply affects the entire body: weakening the cardiovascular system and muscles while restricting lung function.
If inflammatory processes permanently enlarge or destroy the air sacs in the lungs, pulmonary emphysema may develop. This results in the destruction of lung tissue and the formation of “air pockets” in the lungs, creating a similar obstruction to the excess mucus in chronic bronchitis. In such a case, normal breathing is still possible, but narrowed airways prevent the complete expulsion of air from the lungs. Consequently, surplus air remains in the lungs with each inhalation.
Risk factors for developing COPD include tobacco smoking, exposure to dust and chemicals in the workplace, aging, and genetic predisposition. The progression of this disease can be stabilized and its advancement significantly slowed; however, once the changes have occurred, they unfortunately cannot be completely reversed.
COPD symptoms
- shortness of breath during physical exertion
- wheezing and chest pain
- chronic cough with a lot of phlegm
- bluing of the lips or nails (cyanosis)
- frequent respiratory infections
- fatigue
- in later stages unintentional weight loss
COPD and salt therapy: Path to relief
The treatment of COPD is centered on smoking cessation and focuses on symptom relief through inhalers, pulmonary rehabilitation, and respiratory physiotherapy. Prevention is crucial, including vaccination against influenza and pneumococcal infection, as well as long-term home oxygen therapy. The main goal is to stop further deterioration, enhance the quality of life, reduce mortality, and improve physical fitness.
One of the effective methods is halotherapy, which has been used for centuries to treat respiratory and skin diseases. In recent years, it has proven to be exceptionally effective in combating various symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Inhaled salt micro-particles aid in dissolving accumulated mucus in the respiratory passages. This makes the mucus less viscous and easier to expel from the respiratory tract, improving its permeability.
Thanks to its natural anti-inflammatory properties, salt reduces inflammatory processes in the respiratory tract. This way, it reduces swelling in the respiratory passages, improves airway permeability, and facilitates breathing.
The antibacterial properties of salt help in killing harmful bacteria, viruses, and allergens in the respiratory system, which cause inflammations and increased mucus production. This prevents further infection development.
Halotherapy elevates oxygen levels in the blood, facilitating its more efficient utilization. It also promotes relaxation and reduces stress, thereby increasing overall energy levels and supporting faster recovery from physical exhaustion.
In addition to the mentioned effects, salt therapy has a positive impact on the immune system. It promotes the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for the body’s defense against infections and diseases. Simultaneously, it increases the oxygen levels in the blood and facilitates its more efficient utilization. This contributes to relaxation, an overall boost in energy, and quicker recovery from physical exhaustion. An integral benefit is that halotherapy can help reduce the need for medications and the frequency of hospitalizations during health deteriorations.
Recommended halotherapy treatment plan
To attain enduring benefits, we advise adhering to the following frequency and duration of salt therapy sessions.
Although even a less frequent sessions can provide relief, the crucial factor for achieving lasting results is maintaining consistency and regularity. This approach should continue until COPD symptoms begin to diminish. Once that occurs, you can gradually reduce the frequency of visits to our studio and incorporate salt therapy into your routine based on your individual preferences and availability. This will help bolster your immune system, enhance overall health, reduce stress, or serve as a relaxation method.
Why you should give salt therapy a chance
Early diagnosis and comprehensive care play a crucial role in improving the clinical condition and quality of life for patients. While diseases like COPD cannot be completely cured, we can stabilize and significantly slow their progression, which can bring relief and hope for the future. Don’t hesitate to try salt therapy, which has the potential to provide relief. After all, every step towards better health is a step in the right direction.