What is COPD? Part 1 COPD is the abbreviation for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. COPD is a lung disease that results from obstructions in the airways of the lungs that lead to breathing problems. Although COPD is a progressive disease, early diagnosis and treatment may slow its progression. COPD may be complicated by chronic bronchitis or emphysema; some patients develop both problems that lead to additional breathing problems. Some clinicians consider chronic bronchitis and emphysema as simply further manifestations of COPD. COPD SYMPTOMS Shortness of breath is the primary symptom of COPD. It occurs with daily activities and is caused by blocked or clogged airways and damaged or destroyed alveoli where oxygen is absorbed and carbon dioxide is released. Other symptoms may include wheezing, chest tightness, and a chronic cough. The affected individual may tire easily, have frequent colds and flu infections, and produce excessive mucus or sputum. Symptoms of COPD slowly worsen. ADVANCED SYMPTOMS OF COPD Symptoms of COPD usually progress; people with advanced symptoms of COPD may: -Be obese from lack of exercise -Have muscle loss and declining endurance -Have morning headaches -Have a bluish or greyish color underneath the fingernails due to decreased oxygen levels in the blood. Conversely, patients with COPD and emphysema may lose weight.
Posted on: Mon, 21 Oct 2013 10:53:19 +0000
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