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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a persistent lung condition caused by irreversible damage to the lungs and airways. This damage leads to swelling and irritation, or inflammation, in the airways, which restricts airflow to and from the lungs, known as obstruction. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the most prevalent forms of COPD. These conditions often occur simultaneously, and their severity can vary from person to person with COPD.1
Emphysema and chronic bronchitis may develop when the airways are frequently exposed to harmful substances such as tobacco smoke, dust, or gases. These harmful substances cause inflammation that damages or destroys the alveoli and cilia.
- Emphysema and chronic bronchitis may develop when the airways are frequently exposed to harmful substances such as tobacco smoke, dust, or gases. These harmful substances cause inflammation that damages or destroys the alveoli and cilia.2
- Chronic bronchitis: The damaged cilia lose their ability to move mucus out of the lungs, causing the bronchi to become clogged, which leads to chronic bronchitis.2
Below, you can see the contrast between the lungs of a healthy individual and those of someone with COPD.2
Image credit: informedhealth.org
Symptoms
People with COPD may not notice symptoms until they get worse over time.1,2
- Shortness of Breath: Initially with activity, worsening to rest.
- Wheezing: Whistling sound during breathing.
- Chest Tightness: Pressure or discomfort in the chest.
- Fatigue: General tiredness and low energy.
- Sleep problems: Caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing.
- Chronic Cough: Persistent, mucus-producing cough.
- Unintended Weight Loss: Possible in advanced stage.
- Swelling: Fluid retention in ankles, feet or legs.
Causes and Risk Factors5
COPD is mainly caused by long-term exposure to lung irritants.5
- Smoking: The primary cause, including both active and secondhand smoke.
- Air Pollution: Exposure to pollutants from industries, vehicles, and indoor cooking or heating.
- Chest Tightness: Pressure or discomfort in the chest.
- Occupational Exposure: Jobs involving dust, chemicals and fumes.
- Respiratory Infections: Frequent infections in childhood can increase risk.
- Obesity: Higher body weight is linked to an increased risk.
- Stress: Stress hormones can lead to faster breathing and muscle tension.
- Genetics: Conditions like Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency.
- Age: Risk rises after age 40, especially with other factors.
- Asthma: Poorly controlled asthma can elevate the risk.
Prevention4,6
- Avoid smoking: Smoking is the leading cause of respiratory diseases.
- Reducing exposure to pollutants.
- Lifestyle changes: Stay physically active.
- Eat a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight.
- Getting vaccinations for flu and pneumonia.
- Maintain good hygiene.
- Education: e.g. Correct way of using inhalers.
- Manage allergies and asthma.
- Schedule Regular Check-ups.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects the airways - the tubes that transport air in and out of the lungs. In people with asthma, these airways become swollen or inflamed, leading to narrowed passages that restrict airflow, particularly in the bronchi and bronchioles.3 This inflammation also increases the sensitivity of the surrounding smooth muscles.
Credit: brizmaker istock
The diagram below compares the lungs of a healthy individual to those of someone with asthma, illustrating how the narrowing of the airways can restrict airflow.4
Credit: Vector by edesignua
Symptoms
Asthma symptoms vary from person to person, and the first sign isn't always an asthma attack.4
- Shortness of Breath: Initially with activity, worsening to rest.
- Wheezing: Whistling sound during breathing.
- Chest Tightness: Pressure or discomfort in the chest.
- Fatigue: General tiredness and low energy.
- Sleep problems: Caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing.
- Coughing: Particularly at night or early in the morning.
Causes and Risk Factors5
While the exact cause of asthma remains unclear, certain factors increase the likelihood of developing the condition, and each individual with asthma will have their own unique set.3
- Smoking: The primary cause, including both active and secondhand smoke.
- Air Pollution: Exposure to pollutants from industries, vehicles, and indoor cooking or heating.
- Chest Tightness: Pressure or discomfort in the chest.
- Occupational Exposure: Jobs involving dust, chemicals and fumes.
- Respiratory Infections: Frequent infections in childhood can increase risk.
- Obesity: Higher body weight is linked to an increased risk.
- Stress: Stress hormones can lead to faster breathing and muscle tension.
- Genetics: Family history of asthma or allergy-related conditions, such as hay fever and eczema.
- Environmental Allergens: Exposure to pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites, certain foods, fragrances, and chemicals.
- Physical Activity: Exercise in cold or dry air can trigger symptoms for some individuals.
- Weather Changes: Sudden shifts in temperature or humidity can provoke attacks.
Prevention4,6
- Avoid smoking: Smoking is the leading cause of respiratory diseases.
- Reducing exposure to pollutants.
- Lifestyle changes: Stay physically active.
- Eat a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight.
- Getting vaccinations for flu and pneumonia.
- Maintain good hygiene.
- Education: e.g. Correct way of using inhalers.
- Manage allergies.
- Keep warm.
Image credit: Freepik
Credit: Image retrieved from Healthier Together website
Credit: Image retrieved from The First Arabian Drug Information Centre (FADIC) Inc. website
Management Strategies
Asthma Action Plan:
A customized plan, developed with a healthcare provider, details daily management and the steps to follow during an asthma attack.7,8
Education:
Educating patients on recognizing symptoms, using inhalers correctly, and understanding triggers is crucial for effective asthma management.8
CredCredit: Dr. Ankit Parakh
Reference :
- Mayo Clinic (2024). COPD: Symptoms & causes, Overview.
- Informedhealth.org (2022). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care.
- Asthma and Lung UK (2024). What is asthma?
- Mayo Clinic (2024). Asthma: Symptoms & causes.
- Leader, D. (2022). Causes and risk factors of COPD. Verywell Health.
- Cherney, K. (2022). 12 Tips for Preventing COPD and Avoiding Flare-Ups. Healthline.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2024). CDC’s Asthma Action Plan Tool.
- Parakh, A. (2020). Asthma action plan.