COPD

COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is a progressive inflammatory lung disease characterized by long-term respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. Medically, it encompasses two main conditions: emphysema, where alveoli at the end of the smallest air passages (bronchioles) are destroyed due to damaged air sac walls, and chronic bronchitis, defined by a persistent cough with mucus production for at least three months in two successive years, resulting from the inflammation of the bronchial tubes. The primary etiological factor for COPD is long-term exposure to irritants that damage the lungs and airways, typically tobacco smoke. Other risk factors include exposure to dust, chemicals, and air pollution, as well as a rare genetic condition known as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

From a clinical standpoint, patients with COPD experience symptoms such as shortness of breath (dyspnea), chronic cough, wheezing, and frequent respiratory infections. Diagnosis is primarily confirmed through a spirometry test, which measures the volume and speed of air as a patient exhales, thus allowing the assessment of lung function. While COPD is incurable, with progressive deterioration of the lungs, treatment focuses on symptom management to enhance quality of life. This can include smoking cessation, inhaled bronchodilators, corticosteroids, pulmonary rehabilitation, and supplemental oxygen therapy. Severe cases may require surgical interventions such as lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplantation.