What is one effective treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Oxygen therapy is recognized as an effective treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) primarily because it addresses the issue of hypoxemia, which is common in patients with this condition. Many individuals with COPD experience difficulty breathing and reduced airflow, leading to low levels of oxygen in the blood. By using supplemental oxygen, patients can achieve better oxygen saturation, which can improve overall function and quality of life.

In addition to relieving symptoms, long-term oxygen therapy has been shown to decrease mortality rates in patients with chronic respiratory failure due to COPD. Administering oxygen can also help reduce the workload on the heart, as it eases the strain caused by hypoxic conditions, thereby enhancing cardiac function.

Other treatments like high-frequency oscillatory ventilation are typically utilized in more acute or specific scenarios rather than as a default therapy for chronic conditions like COPD. While corticosteroids can play a role in managing exacerbations of COPD, using them alone may not provide the necessary comprehensive management of the disease. Complete bed rest is generally not advisable, as mobility and physical activity are important components of effective COPD management.