Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Einstein Health Glossary
ICD 10 - J44
What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a condition in which the airways that carry air to the lungs (bronchi) become inflamed and thickened. In addition, parts of the lung tissue are destroyed, making it difficult for air to flow in and out, which impairs breathing.
The two main forms of COPD are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. In emphysema, the walls of the small air sacs in the lungs (alveoli) are destroyed and enlarged. In chronic bronchitis, the airways become inflamed and produce excess mucus.
The main cause of COPD is tobacco use, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, pipes, and hookahs, as well as environmental pollution.
Symptoms
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects the lungs and makes breathing difficult. The most common symptoms include:
- shortness of breath (dyspnea): the airways become inflamed and narrowed, and air cannot flow normally, especially during physical activity. This can leave the person breathless and make breathing difficult
- mucus production: inflammation causes the body to produce a thick, sticky fluid that may be yellow or green (mucus). This fluid helps clean the airways, but if produced in large amounts, it can build-up.
- persistent cough: to eliminate the accumulated mucus, the body triggers coughing, which helps clear the lungs
- wheezing: as the airways (bronchi) are inflamed, air is forced through a narrow space, causing a whistling sound from the chest.
COPD symptoms can vary from person to person. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment.
Causes
The main cause of COPD is tobacco, but other factors may also be associated with the disease. The most common causes include:
- smoking: traditional and electronic cigarettes, pipes, hookahs, and similar products irritate and inflame the lungs, which can lead to COPD. Being around people who smoke can also contribute to the development of COPD
- pollution: daily exposure to air pollution, worsened by dry weather and including smoke and toxic gases, can irritate the lungs, cause respiratory problems, and increase the risk of COPD
- genetic factors: people with close relatives who have COPD are at higher risk of developing the disease
- frequent childhood infections: some people who had respiratory illnesses as children may be more likely to develop COPD in adulthood
It’s important to be aware of these factors and take preventive measures to reduce COPD symptoms.
Diagnosis
To diagnose COPD, healthcare professionals may use several strategies, such as:
- medical history assessment: the first step is to discuss symptoms and possible risk factors. The goal is to understand the patient’s habits and determine if they smoke, used to smoke, or live with smokers
- physical exam: the healthcare provider uses a device (stethoscope) to listen to lung sounds and identify anything unusual, such as wheezing. They may also tap lightly on the chest to check for changes
- spirometry (lung function test): the patient breathes into a machine called a spirometer before and after inhaling a medication called a bronchodilator, which helps open the airways. This device measures how much air the person can exhale in one second
- imaging tests: a chest X-ray can show changes in the lungs and airways, such as the presence of air pockets, which are common in COPD
These strategies help healthcare professionals determine whether the patient’s symptoms are caused by COPD or another condition.
Treatment
Although there is no cure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be effectively managed through several approaches, such as:
- quitting smoking: since it is the main cause of COPD, quitting smoking is the most effective way to reduce symptoms
- inhalers: medications usually sprayed into the mouth (inhalation) that deliver air directly to the lungs, such as inhalers, nebulizer solutions, and dry powder inhalers. They help open the airways and make breathing easier
- corticosteroids: also known as cortisone, these medications help reduce inflammation in the airways. They can be inhaled or taken as pills
It is essential to seek guidance from a healthcare professional to adjust treatment when necessary.
Prevention
The most effective way to prevent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is to quit smoking immediately or never start.
It’s also important to avoid places with a lot of cigarette smoke (traditional or electronic), pipes, hookahs, and similar products, as well as avoid direct contact with people who are smoking.
Avoiding polluted environments, dust, and chemical products can also help protect the lungs and reduce the risk of developing COPD.
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