COPD - What Is COPD? - NHLBI, NIH
Nov 8, 2024 · COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a condition caused by damage to the airways or other parts of the lung. This damage leads to inflammation and other problems that block airflow and make it hard to breathe.
COPD - Symptoms - NHLBI, NIH
Oct 4, 2024 · Symptoms of COPD include shortness of breath, cough, wheezing, chest tightness, and fatigue. These can get worse over time. Sudden flare-ups of symptoms are called exacerbations. You should seek medical attention when symptoms occur.
A Quick Guide On COPD - NHLBI, NIH
This guide provides an overview of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), its symptoms, how it affects breathing, and how it's diagnosed and treated. It can be used by health care professionals to have a dialogue with patients or as a general handout to …
COPD - Diagnosis - NHLBI, NIH
Oct 4, 2024 · If you get a COPD diagnosis, ask about genetic screening. Some people have a genetic condition that increases their risk of COPD, called alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency. Screening is especially important if you have family members with AAT deficiency or who were diagnosed with COPD in their 40s or 50s or have liver disease.
Take Action on COPD: Protect Your Lungs for Life Fact Sheet
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a serious condition, but you can take steps to prevent it or minimize its impact. Learn about what you can do to keep your lungs healthy, what to discuss with your healthcare provider if you think you could have COPD, and how to manage symptoms if you’ve been diagnosed with COPD.
COPD Videos - NHLBI, NIH
Feb 13, 2024 · COPD is a serious lung disease that includes two main conditions — chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Learn About Spirometry A simple lung function test called spirometry can check how well your lungs are working.
COPD - Causes and Risk Factors | NHLBI, NIH
Oct 4, 2024 · Most people who have COPD are at least 40 years old when symptoms begin. A condition that runs in families, called alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency: If you are born with this condition, smoking or long-term exposure to fumes or dust can lead to lung damage and COPD. AAT deficiency can also raise your risk for developing COPD at a younger age.
Learn More Breathe Better®: COPD - NHLBI, NIH
Watch this video series to learn more about COPD. NHLBI scientists discuss its diagnosis, management, and prevalence, as well as the COPD National Action Plan and the Institute’s commitment to reducing the burden of the disease.
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a serious lung disease that over time makes it hard to breathe. Other names for COPD include chronic bronchitis or emphysema. COPD, a leading cause of death, affects millions of Americans and causes long-term disability. Most often, COPD occurs in people age 40 and over who…
November is National COPD Awareness Month | NHLBI, NIH
Nov 14, 2024 · Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a serious lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It’s most common in older adults, but you can take action to look after your lung health at any age.