Earlier this week, paparazzi photographers captured images of Star Trek star Leonard Nimoy being pushed through JFK Airport in New York City in a wheelchair, receiving oxygen from a portable oxygen concentrator.
Last night, Nimoy revealed the reason why the oxygen was necessary via his verified Twitter feed.
I quit smoking 30 yrs ago. Not soon enough. I have COPD. Grandpa says, quit now!! LLAP
— Leonard Nimoy (@TheRealNimoy) January 30, 2014
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is often a mix of two diseases: chronic bronchitis and emphysema and is caused by damage to the lungs over many years. While it is almost always caused by smoking, one can also be at risk for COPD due to air pollution, dust, chemical fumes, and even secondhand smoke over a long period of time.
It is most commonly diagnosed in people over 60 years of age. Leonard Nimoy turns 83 on March 26.
COPD cannot be cured, but it can be managed. Recommended steps include:
-Avoiding tobacco smoke and air pollution
-Limit symptoms (like shortness of breath)
-Increase activity level
-Improve overall health
-Prevent and treat flare-ups
It is also not uncommon for people with COPD to receive supplementary oxygen, as Nimoy was pictured with in New York.
Many people with COPD are able to manage their condition and still take part in daily activities and events.
We here at TrekGeeks maintain he looks pretty amazing for 82 years young and we are very glad that he’s being treated for the condition by his doctor.
It’s certainly not an easy condition to live with but, like everything else, our favorite Adopted Grandpa appears to be approaching it with the same poise and grace with which he approaches everything else in life.
Live Long and Prosper, Mr. Nimoy!
=/\=
