Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Overview

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) refers to a group of lung diseases that block air flow as you exhale, and make it more difficult for you to breathe.

Emphysema and chronic asthmatic bronchitis are the two main conditions that compose COPD. In all cases, will ultimately damage the respiratory tract interferes with the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your lungs.

COPD is a major cause of death and disease in the world. Most of the causes of COPD, long-term smokers and non smokers can prevent or stop after the start. This damage to the lungs can not be changed, so treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and reducing further damage.