For Mr. Mahadeo Prasad Verma it is a new life and a new start. The chronic smoker for the last 20 years was suffering from persistent shortness of breath and coughing. The Muzzaffarpur resident consulted numerous doctors, who recommended syrups and tests, however none could cure him. Riddled with discomfort and impending health issues, he decided to consult a specialist at Paras Hospital Patna.
On consulting Dr Prakash Kumar Sinha, Consultant Pulmonology, Paras Patna, Mr. Mahadeo Prasad Verma went through a thorough physical examination and some tests to assess his airways – Chest X-Ray, Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) and the 6 minute walk test. The results highlighted the presence of a pulmonary disease that can affect multiple organs – Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
According to Dr Prakash Kumar Sinha, “Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a deadly medical condition with under-estimated mortality and morbidity rates across the globe. It remains undiagnosed probably because it progresses gradually and shows signs at a very late stage. Recent studies highlight that more than 22 million people suffer from this disease in India. Men and women from rural parts of India are more prone to low-quality smoking and tobacco consumption. People from these parts of the country are also negligent towards their health and symptoms, and seek medical help only when the condition worsens and becomes uncontrollable.”
Dr Prakash also states, “India has perhaps the highest percentage of COPD-related mortality, and the number is growing constantly. The age-standardised mortality rate is found to be around 65 per 100,000 for both males and females in India. This is around 20 per cent of the global total per year. Mr. Mahadeo Prasad Verma, a chronic smoker was also suffering from the crippling disease COPD that can have a confounding effect on other organs of the body too.”
Some of the important signs and symptoms associated with COPD are – Increasing breathlessness, wheezing, chest tightness, coughing frequently with or without sputum. COPD can defined as a progressive lung disease with increasing breathlessness. The umbrella disease includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema and asthma.
Mr. Mahadeo Prasad Verma was recommended to quit smoking, include certain life style modifications and follow a strict medical regime. Today after a few months of clinical monitoring and leading a tobacco free life, he is free and breathing easy.
He shares, “I couldn’t believe that simple steps would make my life so much better. Today I am pain free and can breathe better. I feel that by quitting tobacco use I have become a new person with new energy. For my new life, I am indebted to Dr Prakash. He has been my guidance and motivator. No wonder people say that doctors are God, infact I would like to add that they are even protectors of the creations made by God.”
