Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic and progressive lung disease characterized by airflow limitation and difficulty breathing. It is a term that encompasses two main conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD is primarily caused by long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases, most commonly from cigarette smoking, although exposure to pollutants or occupational hazards can also contribute.
In chronic bronchitis, the airways become inflamed and excess mucus is produced, leading to coughing and difficulty clearing the airways. Emphysema, on the other hand, involves the gradual destruction of the air sacs in the lungs, reducing the efficiency of lung function and causing shortness of breath. Both conditions often coexist in individuals with COPD.
Symptoms of COPD include shortness of breath, wheezing, chronic cough (with or without mucus production), chest tightness, and fatigue. The severity of symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. COPD is generally a progressive disease, meaning that its symptoms worsen over time, leading to increased disability and breathing difficulties.
Although there is currently no cure for COPD, management involves a combination of strategies aimed at relieving symptoms, slowing down the progress of the disease, and preventing complications. This includes quitting smoking, avoiding exposure to irritants, medications to relax and open the airways, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and in severe cases, oxygen therapy or surgical interventions like lung transplantation. Regular monitoring and follow-up with healthcare professionals are crucial for effective COPD management.
