WHAT IS COPD?

"Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, refers to a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two conditions that make up chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (What is COPD?, 2018)."

Emphysema:

Emphysema is a lung condition characterized by shortness of breath. Small air sacs in the lungs called alveoli, are damaged by irritants such as cigarette smoking, chemical fumes and dust, and poor air quality. These irritants cause the inner walls of the air sacs to weaken and rupture creating larger air spaces instead of many small ones. These larger spaces reduce the surface area of the lungs, and decreases the amount of oxygen that reaches your bloodstream. "When you exhale, the damaged alveoli don't work properly, and old air becomes trapped, leaving no room for fresh, oxygen-rich air to enter" (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2017).

Complications of Emphysema:

• Collapsed lung (pneumothorax).

• Heart problems.

• Large holes in the lungs (bullae).

Chronic Bronchitis:

Chronic bronchitis is a long-term inflammation process of the bronchi. The inflammation causes massive amounts of mucus production and is common among smokers. "This condition causes a cough that’s often called a smoker’s cough. It also causes wheezing and chest discomfort. These may get worse over time and lead to severe breathing problems (Chronic Bronchitis, 2019)."

Complications of Chronic Bronchitis:

• Frequent and severe infections

• Trouble breathing

• Cyanosis of the fingernails, lips, and skin

• Wheezing

• Swollen feet

• Heart failure

Chronic Bronchitis. (2019). Retrieved November 8, 2019, from The Johns Hopkins University: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/chronic-bronchitis

Mayo Clinic Staff. (2017, April 28). Emphysema. Retrieved November 8, 2019, from Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/emphysema/symptoms-causes/syc-20355555

What is COPD? (2018, June 6). Retrieved November 8, 2019, from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/copd/index.html