An Introduction to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?

Answer 1

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe a number of lung diseases that make it difficult to breathe. According to the World Health Organization, COPD is the fourth leading cause of death globally and in 2000, 2.75 million people died from the disease. 12 million adults in the United States are diagnosed with COPD annually and by the year 2020, COPD is expected to be the third leading cause of death.

What is COPD?

COPD describes diseases that are caused by airflow obstructions in the lungs. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the most common forms of COPD.

What are the Symptoms of COPD?

Most symptoms of COPD do not manifest until the lungs have already been significantly damaged and symptoms generally get worse over time. Most people diagnosed with COPD experience wheezing, chronic cough, tightness in the chest and shortness of breath.

What Causes COPD?

Emphysema, one of the diseases under the umbrella of COPD, is caused when the lungs' air sacs are damaged. The disease slowly breaks down the walls of these air sacs, called alveoli, which makes it more difficult for the body to exchange oxygen for carbon dioxide.

Chronic bronchitis causes the airways that lead to the lungs to be inflamed and narrowed. The body may increase production of mucus to combat this effect, but an overabundance of mucus can obstruct the tubes even more.

Both emphysema and chronic bronchitis are commonly caused by exposure to air pollution, cigarette smoke, dust and fumes from hazardous chemicals.

What are the Complications of COPD?

People diagnosed with COPD experience infections of the respiratory system, like the flu or colds, more often than others. The disease may also cause high blood pressure, cardiac disease and depression. Limbs may also become swollen due to circulatory problems.

Is COPD Curable?

There is no cure for COPD. Patients may manage their symptoms through medications like steroids, antibiotics or bronchodilators. Some patients also benefits from oxygen therapy, rehabilitation programs and lung transplant surgeries.