Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
A chronic inflammatory lung disease that obstructs airflow from the lungs, typically caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or smoking.
Symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic cough with mucus production
- Wheezing
- Fatigue
- Frequent respiratory infections
Causes & Risk Factors
- Smoking
- Long-term exposure to air pollutants
- Occupational dust and chemicals
- Genetic predisposition (e.g., alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency)
Diagnosis
- Pulmonary function tests (spirometry)
- Chest X-ray or CT scan
- Arterial blood gas analysis
- Medical history and physical examination
Effective Treatment Options
- Bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids
- Pulmonary rehabilitation programs
- Supplemental oxygen therapy
- Smoking cessation support
- Vaccinations (e.g., influenza, pneumococcal)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can COPD be cured?
No cure exists, but symptoms can be managed to improve quality of life.
Do all COPD patients need oxygen therapy?
Not all; it's based on your oxygen levels and disease severity.
