Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung condition that prevents airflow from the lungs. The signs and symptoms include coughing up mucus (sputum), wheezing, and trouble breathing. It is frequently caused by prolonged exposure to irritant gases or particulates, most frequently from cigarette smoke. Heart disease, lung cancer, and a number of other diseases are more likely to occur in people with COPD.
The two most frequent lung conditions that cause COPD are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. The effect of these two illnesses might vary among people with COPD, and they typically coexist.
Swelling of the bronchial tubes' lining, which transports air to and from the lungs' air sacs, characterizes chronic bronchitis. Persistent coughing and mucus production are its main symptoms.
Emphysema is a disorder of the lung developed when the alveoli at the end of the lungs' tiniest air tubes, or bronchioles, are damaged due to harmful exposure to cigarette smoke and other irritating chemicals and particulate matter.
Smoking tobacco is the primary and common cause of COPD. People who are exposed to fumes from burning fuel for cooking and heating in inadequately ventilated houses frequently acquire COPD. Along with smoking, air pollution also contributes to COPD.
Your doctor will analyze your medical history, perform an external examination, and order certain tests, including breathing tests, to evaluate the condition of your lungs and overall health.
The goal of COPD treatment is to reduce symptoms like coughing and breathing issues while also preventing respiratory infections. Your doctor might suggest you take supplemental oxygen, anti-inflammatory medications, bronchodilators, etc.
The best thing you can do to prevent COPD is to quit smoking. Programs to assist you in stopping smoking might be helpful if you want to. Secondly, stay away from any location with poor air quality, which includes air that is polluted with dust, smoke, gasses, and odors.
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