Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is an obstructive lung disease that causes long-term respiratory issues and compromised airflow. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chronic cough, excess sputum production, and recurrent respiratory infections. Over time, exposure to irritants leads to inflammation, narrowing of the airways, and destruction of lung tissue. COPD typically has a progressive course, meaning that symptoms get worse over time. Initially, it may present as shortness of breath with exercise and eventually can progress to inability to perform everyday activities.

The most common cause of COPD is cigarette smoking. Other risk factors include living in a highly polluted area and a family history of COPD. It is diagnosed with a pulmonary function test. This is a simple in office procedure that evaluates your capacity to breathe. This test will also help to differentiate your diagnosis from asthma.

Medical management and close monitoring can improve symptoms, slow progression, and improve quality of life. Further damage to the lungs can be prevented via smoking cessation, respiratory rehabilitation, proper preventive care (including vaccines), and compliance and adherence to prescribed medications. Oxygen therapy and lung transplantation may be indicated in severe disease.