Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a long-term condition that affects the lungs and makes it difficult to breathe.
It develops gradually, often over many years, and is most commonly caused by exposure to irritants that damage the lungs.
Although there is no cure, early detection and proper management can greatly improve quality of life and slow disease progression.
What Is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?
COPD is an umbrella term for a group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it harder to exhale.
The two main conditions that fall under COPD are chronic bronchitis and emphysema:
- Chronic bronchitis causes inflammation in the airways, leading to persistent coughing and mucus buildup.
- Emphysema damages the tiny air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs, reducing their ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide.
People with COPD often experience both conditions to varying degrees. The disease limits airflow, making everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs more challenging.
What Causes COPD?
The most common cause of COPD is long-term exposure to substances that irritate and damage the lungs.
Over time, these irritants cause inflammation and structural changes that reduce airflow.
Major Causes and Risk Factors
- Cigarette smoking: The leading cause of COPD. Up to 90 percent of cases are linked to smoking history.
- Secondhand smoke: Long-term exposure can cause similar damage.
- Air pollution: Continuous exposure to pollutants and fine particulate matter contributes to lung inflammation.
- Occupational exposure: Long-term contact with dust, chemicals, or fumes in workplaces such as construction, manufacturing, or mining.
- Genetic factors: A rare inherited condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can cause COPD even in nonsmokers.
- History of lung infections: Repeated respiratory infections in childhood or adulthood can increase risk.
While smoking is the primary cause, COPD can develop in anyone exposed to lung irritants over time.
Common Symptoms
COPD symptoms often begin gradually and worsen as lung function declines. Common signs include:
- Persistent cough, often with mucus
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Fatigue
- Frequent respiratory infections
Because these symptoms overlap with other lung conditions, proper testing is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
How to Get Tested for COPD
Testing for COPD focuses on assessing lung function and determining how well air moves in and out of the lungs.
Common Screening and Diagnostic Tests
- Spirometry: The most common test for COPD. You breathe into a device that measures how much air you can exhale and how quickly you can do it.
- Chest X-ray: Helps detect structural changes in the lungs and rule out other conditions such as pneumonia or heart failure.
- CT scan: Provides detailed images of the lungs and airways to evaluate the extent of damage.
- Pulse oximetry: Measures the amount of oxygen in your blood using a small sensor placed on your finger.
- Arterial blood gas test: Determines how well your lungs exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Take Control of Your Lung Health
COPD can be managed effectively with early diagnosis, lifestyle adjustments, and medical treatment.
Quitting smoking, avoiding air pollutants, exercising regularly, and following prescribed medications can help maintain lung function and improve breathing.