COPD: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

• Chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs
• Characterized by long-term respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation

Conditions Included Under COPD

• Emphysema: damage to alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs, leading to shortness of breath and reduced oxygen exchange
• Chronic Bronchitis: long-term inflammation of the bronchial tubes, characterized by daily cough and mucus production

Symptoms

• Persistent cough with mucus
• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activities
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Fatigue

Causes and Risk Factors

• Smoking (primary cause)
• Long-term exposure to air pollutants, including chemical fumes, dust, and smoke
• Genetic factors (e.g., alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency)
• History of frequent childhood respiratory infections

Diagnosis

• Pulmonary function tests (e.g., spirometry) to measure lung function
• Chest X-rays and CT scans to visualize lung damage
• Arterial blood gas analysis to measure oxygen levels

Treatment

• Smoking cessation
• Medications (e.g., bronchodilators, corticosteroids)
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Oxygen therapy
• Lifestyle changes (e.g., nutrition, exercise)
• In severe cases, surgery or lung transplants may be considered

Management

• Avoid lung irritants
• Stay active
• Follow treatment plans to manage symptoms and prevent exacerbations
• Regular check-ups with healthcare providers to monitor condition and adjust treatments as needed