COPD (Pulmonary Disease)

The numbers are staggering. An estimated 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and millions more are suffering from undiagnosed symptoms of the disease that are not being treated.

What is COPD?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, commonly referred to as COPD, actually refers to more than one disease. It is a group of diseases including emphysema and chronic bronchitis that are known to cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems.

Those exposed to air pollutants in the home or workplace may be at an increased risk of developing COPD. Genetic factors or a history of respiratory infections may also increase your risk.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of COPD include:

  • Frequent coughing that may include wheezing
  • Coughing up an excess of phlegm or mucus
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty taking a deep breath
  • Blue lips or fingernails
  • Chronic or frequent fatigue

How is COPD diagnosed?

COPD is easily diagnosed with a simple in-office test called spirometry. The test measures how much air you inhale, how much you exhale, and how quickly you exhale it to determine how well your lungs work. A spirometry test can also be used to diagnose other breathing conditions including asthma [link to asthma content page].

Treatment for COPD

Unfortunately, there is no cure for COPD at this time. But, it can certainly be treated and managed to help restore your quality of life.

I am a pulmonary specialist experienced in treating a variety of lung diseases and breathing-related issues. If you have shortness of breath or any of the other symptoms above, schedule an appointment today.

Short of breath? I am here.

A Word from our Patients

This is one of the few physicians who actually puts patient care as his top priority. He is what individualized patient care is about. I would love to have him for all my health needs. We need many more of this man in the valley!!!!

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Very caring Dr. Took on my case when I was sick in the hospital. I felt he cared for me like he was my own family. I smoked for 50 plus years and he helped talk me through quitting and with never putting me down. I now have not smoked for over 1 year and off oxygen for at least 6 months He has a great caring for his patients

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One of the best doctors I have ever had, thankful I was blessed to have a team of doctors who were honest and took time to explain things in human terms I could understand and with so much patience always felt 100% attended to and informed of any and all things about my case and disease. Will forever be thankful to this doctor for saving me.

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Dr Bencheqroun is a very knowledgeable physician and listens very patiently. I am happy he did not give up on me although I was a bad patient. He always spends a lot of time with me when I see him and I truly appreciate that. I can see he is very sincere and caring for his patients.

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Dr. B is very patient and a great listener. His medical expertise and thoroughness is what I truly appreciate. He is very detail oriented and takes time with me every time I see him. One of the best I have ever seen!

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