C.O.P.D.
COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a lung disease in which the lungs are damaged making it hard to breathe. People with COPD have airways that are narrowed and blocked due to damage. In COPD, the airways—the tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs—are partly obstructed, making it difficult to get air in and out. The airways cannot be repaired once they are damaged but there are things you can do to feel better and slow the damage. Working with your doctors may be able to slow the damage. The airways branch out like an upside-down tree, and at the end of each branch are many small, balloon-like air sacs called alveoli. In healthy people, each airway is clear and open. The air sacs are small and dainty, and both the airways and air sacs are elastic and springy. When you breathe in, each air sac fills up with air like a small balloon; when you breathe out, the balloon deflates and the air goes out. In COPD, the airways and air sacs lose their shape and become floppy. Less air gets in and less air goes out because:

• The airways and air sacs lose their elasticity (like an old rubber band).
• The walls between many of the air sacs are destroyed.
• The walls of the airways become thick and inflamed (swollen).
• Cells in the airways make more mucus (sputum) than usual, which tends to clog the airways.
There are two common forms of COPD: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Many patients with COPD have both conditions.

Chronic bronchitis: Occurs when the lining of the airways gets red and full of mucus which can clog the airways.

Emphysema: Occurs when the air sacs at the end of the airways break down, not allowing air to pass through the damaged sacs.

The commons signs and symptoms of COPD include:

• Cough that doesn’t go away
• Coughing up a lot of mucus
• Shortness of breath, especially when exercising
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness

The more damage that has been done to your lungs, the more severe your symptoms will be. Only a doctor can assess and treat your COPD. Treatment and lifestyle changes can help control your symptoms. The earlier your COPD is diagnosed, the better the results of your treatment.

The common causes of COPD include:

• Smoking
• Exposure to second hand smoke
• Exposure to air pollutants (work, outdoors, etc)
• Family history

COPD is a major cause of death and illness, and it is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States and throughout the world.
Your doctor will evaluate your pulmonary function by taking a personal and family history, performing breathing studies, and performing a physical examination. Medication and change of lifestyle are key to helping you control your symptoms.

Please be sure to speak with your physician regarding your symptoms, treatment, medications, and concerns during your visits.