Bethany Rettberg, NPC

These poor health choices can lead to disease progression, even among younger people, for those who have the coronavirus.

When a patient or provider makes the decision to quit smoking, it is critical to address not only the benefits of smoking cessation but the challenges that lie ahead.

The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) defines the condition as follows: “COPD is a common, preventable, and treatable disease that is characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation that is due to airway and/or alveolar abnormalities usually caused by significant exposure to noxious particles or gases.”

They may mistakenly believe that e-cigarettes are safe and wonder why they cause a cough.

An accurate medical history and a physical exam are critical to rule out more serious conditions.

Practitioners should get a detailed medical history and conduct a thorough physical to treat sinus infections.