Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Overview

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a type of progressive lung condition. It is primarily caused by smoking and long-term exposure to pollutants. Its two main types are chronic bronchitis and emphysema, both leading to breathing difficulties and persistent cough. Symptoms of this condition usually include shortness of breath, fatigue, and frequent respiratory infections. There is no permanent cure for this disease. However, treatments, including medications, oxygen therapy, and lifestyle changes, can help manage symptoms and one's overall well-being. Quitting smoking and avoiding lung irritants can help prevent lung damage.

What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic lung condition that is caused due to smoking, persistent exposure to fumes, irritating smoke, dust or chemicals. The lung damage caused inflammation inside the airways, which limits airflow into and out of the lungs. Hence, the limited airflow is termed an obstruction. Symptoms of COPD include wheezing, trouble breathing and consistent cough with mucus.

Types of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

The 2 most common types of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are mentioned below:

Chronic Bronchitis

It is a type of inflammation in the bronchi, which are large airways. It narrows the breathing tubes, making it hard to breathe and worsening over time. The disease also causes the production of mucus in coughs. Individuals with this disease notice symptoms such as persistent cough with mucus, severe abdominal or chest pain, wheezing and frequent respiratory infections.

Emphysema

It occurs when the alveoli become enlarged and damaged. Individuals with this COPD type notice shortness of breath (dyspnea), a common symptom. It is caused mostly by smoking and long-term exposure to fumes, smoke and dust from cooking fuel or the workplace.

Symptoms of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

The common symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease include bluish skin (cyanosis), barrel-shaped chest, difficulty in breathing, cough with mucus and wheezing. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, especially after engaging in physical activity, fatigue, frequent lung infections, unintentional fever and weight loss.

Causes of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

The main cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is smoking. Other causes may include exposure to dust and fumes from burning fuel at the workplace or home, second-hand smoke and air pollution. People who do not smoke can also develop the disease due to genetic disorders such as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (alpha-1).

Risk Factors of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Individuals with a habit of smoking are mostly at risk for COPD. Other risk factors include long-term exposure to smoke, dust, chemical fumes and vapours in the workplace that irritate and cause swelling in the lungs. Genetic factors such as AAT deficiency caused by genetic mutations also increase the risk. Additionally, people with asthma also have chances to develop the disease.

Diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

A spirometry helps diagnose the disease. Other diagnostic tests include CT scan, chest X-ray, alpha-1 testing, oximetry or arterial blood gas (ABG), lung volume tests or exercise testing.

The stages of COPD are based on the results of forced expiratory volume in a second (FEV1). It is, therefore, the amount of air one breathes out in 1 second, helping a doctor understand the degree of airway blockage. Hence, the stages are:

Stage 1: FEV1 is 80 or beyond
Stage 2: FEV1 is between 50 to 79
Stage 3: FEV1 is between 30 to 49
Stage 4: FEV1 is less than 30

Treatment for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

COPD treatment focuses on improving the symptoms and alleviating complications. A healthcare professional may recommend smoking cessation programs or inhaled medications such as steroids and bronchodilators to reduce inflammation and open airways. Oxygen therapy can improve the oxygen levels in the body. A doctor may also recommend corticosteroids and antibiotics. Other treatment plans include pulmonary rehabilitation, lung volume reduction and positive airway pressure.

Prevention of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Quitting smoking can be the best method to prevent COPD. One must also avoid ling irritating such as chemical fumes, dust, air pollution and secondhand smoke. Staying physically active and maintaining a healthy weight can also improve the symptoms.

Myths and Facts Related to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Learn about the myths and facts related to COPD from the following points:

Myth 1: Only smokers get COPD
Fact: Smoking is the leading cause of COPD. However, this disease can also affect individuals exposed to air pollution or lung irritants, and family history of COPD.

Myth 2: COPD only affects older adults
Fact: Although more common in older adults, COPD can develop in younger people, especially if they are exposed to significant risk factors.

Myth 3: People with COPD shouldn’t exercise
Fact: Controlled and moderate exercise can help improve lung function and overall quality of life for individuals diagnosed with COPD.

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