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| CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD) |
| COPD is a serious lung disease that over time, makes it hard to breathe. You may also have heard COPD called other names, like emphysema or chronic bronchitis. In people who have COPD, the airways tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs are partially blocked, which makes it hard to get air in and out. |
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| The "airways" are the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs through the nose and mouth. Healthy airways and air sacs in the lungs are elastic they try to bounce back to their original shape after being stretched or filled with air, just the way a new rubber band or balloon does. This elastic quality helps retain the normal structure of the lung and helps to move the air quickly in and out. |
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| In people with COPD, the air sacs no longer bounce back to their original shape (this is known as emphysema). The airways can also become swollen or thicker than normal and mucus production might increase (this is known as chronic bronchitis). The floppy airways are blocked or obstructed, making it even harder to get air out of the lungs. |
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| Many people with COPD avoid activities that they used to enjoy because they become short of breath more easily. |
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| Symptoms of COPD include: |
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- Constant coughing, sometimes called "smoker's cough"
- Shortness of breath while doing activities you used to be able to do
- Excess sputum production
- Feeling like you can't breathe
- Not being able to take a deep breath
- Wheezing
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| When COPD is severe, shortness of breath and other symptoms can get in the way of doing even the most basic tasks, such as doing light housework, taking a walk, even bathing and getting dressed. |
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| COPD develops slowly and can worsen over time, so be sure to report any symptoms you might have to your doctor as soon as possible, no matter how mild they may seem. |
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Testing
Pulmonary Function Testing
Chest XRAY
Treatment |
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| Quit Smoking |
| If you smoke, the best thing you can to do prevent more damage to your lungs is to quit. To help you quit, there are many online resources and several new aids available from your doctor. The National Cancer Institute has information on smoking cessation. Visit SmokeFree.gov, the American Lung Association or call 1-800-QUIT NOW for more information. |
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| Try to stay away from other things that could irritate your lungs, like dust and strong fumes. Stay indoors when the outside air quality is poor. You should also stay away from places where there might be cigarette smoke. |
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| Visit Your Healthcare Provider on a Regular Basis |
| See your provider regularly even if you are feeling fine. Make a list of your breathing symptoms and think about any activities that you can no longer do because of shortness of breath. Be sure to bring a list of all the medicines you are taking to each visit. |
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| Take Precautions Against the Flu |
| Do your best to avoid crowds during flu season. It is also a good idea to get a flu shot every year, since the flu can cause serious problems for people with COPD. You should also ask your provider about the pneumonia vaccine. |
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