What is COPD?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a chronic (long term) health condition that causes blockages from swelling in the airways of your lungs. The swelling can make it harder to breathe and cause you to cough, wheeze or have shortness of breath.
COPD gets worse over time but can be treated. Most people can control their symptoms and have a good quality of life with treatment.
Who can get COPD?
People with a history of smoking or who are around cigarette smoke for long periods of time are most likely to get COPD (at a higher risk).
What are the symptoms of COPD?
Symptoms of COPD can be different for everyone. The type of symptoms you have and how often you have them are important to share with your doctor. These details will help them create your management plan.
COPD signs and symptoms may include:
- Cough that doesn’t go away
- Shortness of breath
- Mucus
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Feeling tired (fatigue)
- Not being able to take a deep breath
- Feeling you cannot breathe
If you are having any of these symptoms talk to your doctor right away. The sooner you start treatment for COPD the less damage will be done to your lungs.
How is COPD treated?
COPD symptoms and treatment may be different from person to person. Your doctor will work with you to create a plan that is best for you. Medicine is often the first treatment option. The type of medicine depends on how bad your COPD is. People also can use a “quick relief” medicine. This type of medicine works quickly to help with symptoms. “Long acting” medicines are taken every day and help reduce (lower) the swelling in your airways to help manage your COPD and prevent symptoms.
