COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is an umbrella term for two primary conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Both conditions make it harder to breathe air in and push air out. This means the body either has a hard time getting enough oxygen or too much carbon dioxide remains in the body.
Chronic bronchitis is a progressive lung disease that involves inflammation, increased mucus and thickening of the airways. 1 Source: “COPD symptoms and causes,” Mayo Clinic, updated August 11, 2017, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/copd/symptoms-causes/syc-20353679
Emphysema causes the alveoli - the small air sacs in the lungs that provide oxygen to the bloodstream - to thin and become and less elastic. 2 Source: “COPD symptoms and causes,” Mayo Clinic, updated August 11, 2017, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/copd/symptoms-causes/syc-20353679
There is no cure for COPD but there are treatment options and lifestyle changes that can help you remain active, breathe easier and slow the progress of the disease.
Finding the right treatment for your symptoms is crucial. Medication, exercise, oxygen therapy and ventilation can help. Talk to your doctor about your treatment options.
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Find out what your options are if you need mechanical ventilation.
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Source: “COPD symptoms and causes,” Mayo Clinic, updated August 11, 2017, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/copd/symptoms-causes/syc-20353679
Source: “COPD symptoms and causes,” Mayo Clinic, updated August 11, 2017, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/copd/symptoms-causes/syc-20353679
Source: “The difference between emphysema and chronic bronchitis,” Lung Institute, November 5, 2014, https://lunginstitute.com/blog/difference-between-emphysema-and-chronic-bronchitis/.