COPD – Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (Complete Guide)
What is COPD?
COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It is a long-term (chronic) lung disease in which airflow to the lungs becomes partially blocked, making it difficult to breathe. COPD slowly worsens over time and mainly affects the airways and air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs.
In simple words, COPD means lungs cannot push air out properly, causing breathlessness.
Types of COPD
COPD mainly includes two conditions:
1. Chronic Bronchitis
Long-term inflammation of bronchial tubes
Excess mucus production
Persistent cough with sputum
2. Emphysema
Damage to air sacs (alveoli)
Reduced oxygen exchange
Shortness of breath
Most patients have a combination of both conditions.
Causes of COPD
The most common causes include:
🚬 Smoking (main cause)
Passive smoking
Air pollution
Occupational dust and chemical exposure
Biomass fuel smoke (chulha smoke in rural areas)
Genetic condition (Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency – rare)
Note: In India, non-smokers can also develop COPD due to pollution and biomass fuel exposure.
Symptoms of COPD
Symptoms usually develop slowly and worsen with time:
Shortness of breath (especially during activity)
Chronic cough
Excess sputum (mucus)
Wheezing
Chest tightness
Fatigue
Frequent respiratory infections
In advanced stages:
Difficulty in daily activities
Bluish lips or nails (cyanosis)
Weight loss
Risk Factors
Smoking history
Age above 40 years
Long-term exposure to pollutants
Family history of lung disease
Poor lung growth in childhood
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