Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
By Dr. Deepak Talwar in Pulmonology, Respiratory & Sleep Medicine
Nov 24, 2016
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
By Dr. Deepak Talwar in Pulmonology, Respiratory & Sleep Medicine
November is COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) Awareness Month, with World COPD Day observed on November 19th. This event highlights the challenges faced by over 200 million people worldwide suffering from this chronic respiratory disease, which claims approximately 3 million lives annually. COPD is currently the 6th leading cause of death and disability in low and middle-income countries and is projected to become the leading cause of death by 2030.
Understanding the Mechanism
COPD refers to a group of progressive lung diseases that obstruct airflow, making breathing increasingly difficult. The disease impairs gas exchange in the lungs due to:
- Loss of elasticity in airways & air sacs.
- Destruction, thickening, or inflammation of alveolar walls.
- Excessive mucus production clogging the airways.
Risk Factors & Causes
COPD risk increases with age, especially in individuals over 45, affecting both men and women equally. The primary cause is long-term lung damage, predominantly from smoking (cigarettes, pipes, cigars). Continuous exposure to other lung irritants, such as outdoor air pollution, indoor air pollution (tobacco smoke, NO2, carbon monoxide), and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), also contributes to COPD development.
Signs & Symptoms
Early symptoms of COPD may be subtle, becoming more noticeable in advanced stages. Key symptoms include:
- Increased breathlessness
- Recurrent coughing (with and without sputum)
- Wheezing
- Tightness in the chest
A spirometry test is often used to diagnose COPD, measuring lung function by assessing how much air you inhale and exhale and how quickly you exhale.
Treatment
While COPD remains incurable, lifestyle changes and treatments can improve symptoms and slow disease progression. Key treatments include:
- Medicines: Bronchodilators relax the muscles around airways, making breathing easier.
- Oxygen Therapy: Helps individuals with severe COPD and low blood oxygen levels.
- Surgery: An option for severe cases not responding to medication, including lung transplants for very severe COPD.
Conclusion
World COPD Day provides a unique opportunity for society to educate themselves and others about this silent epidemic.
