I have COPD and recent cold weather has exacerbated that condition. It often causes some constriction in the chest. But this upper chest discomfort is unusual. I ve no history of heart disease but I am 75, if that matters. Should I go to the emergency room, just to be sure?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. COPD (chronic obstructive Pulmonary disease) is chronic, progressive disease of lungs. We can not cure it, but we can halt the progression and prevent exacerbation. Treatment of COPD consists of following four modalities. Simultaneous application of all four is must for better treatment outcome. 1. Smoking cessation. It is the most vital part. 2. Start inhaled bronchodilators, bucolic and antioxidants. 3. Enroll yourself in Pulmonary Rehabilitation center where chest physiotherapy and deep breathing exercises are done. These will improve your lung function. 4. Get done vaccination with pneumococcal and Influenza vaccines to prevent future lung infection. So follow all these to prevent recurrent exacerbation.