COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic lung disease that blocks airflow from the lungs. This condition affects about one in eight adults over age 45, and it is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Most cases of COPD are caused by smoking or inhaling secondhand smoke. COPD can also be caused by exposure to air pollutants, but this is much less common.

COPD is not one disease, but two. Doctors group chronic bronchitis and emphysema together under the label of COPD. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema share many symptoms, such as cough, mucus production, wheezing, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.

While COPD can’t be cured, treatments are available that can slow the disease’s progression, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life.

COPD

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