World COPD Day

Today is World COPD Day. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is when someone has trouble breathing because they have trouble accessing their airways. The Mayo Clinic describes COPD as, “a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common conditions that contribute to COPD. Chronic bronchitis is inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. It’s characterized by daily cough and mucus (sputum) production.”

COPD is incredibly common, and treatable to drastically improve quality of life. The symptoms of COPS are, “shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, chronis caugh, lack of energy, unintended weight loss. and swelling in the legs.” There are many causes of COPD but it is closely linked to those who are smokers. Tobacco has been known for years to present complications from extended use. The carcinogens in cigarettes work in a myriad amount of ways to slowly deteriorate the body from the inside out. About “20-30 of people who smoke will develop COPD” in addition to other breathing issues. The people who are most likely to develop COPD are those who smoke, have asthma, are exposed to mold and chemicals, age and an unlikely factor of genetics.

Do you or someone you know have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder? Comment below to tell us about your experience with COPD.