All About COPD

By in Pulmonology, Respiratory & Sleep Medicine

Feb 20, 2023

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a group of chronic lung diseases where airflow becomes obstructed due to inflammation. The lungs contain two main tubes called bronchi, which branch into smaller bronchioles connected to tiny air sacs. These air sacs exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide with the help of capillaries.

In COPD, the air sacs and bronchioles become enlarged or inflamed. As a result, air gets trapped during exhalation, causing breathing difficulty. COPD is the second leading cause of death in India after heart-related diseases. Because of its severity, awareness and timely diagnosis are essential.

Causes of COPD

Smoking remains the major cause of COPD, especially in developing countries. Cigarette smoke and air irritants damage the air passages, but not all smokers develop COPD — indicating genetic influence as well.

A key genetic factor is Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (AAt) deficiency, where the liver fails to produce enough protective protein for the lungs. Poor ventilation during cooking, exposure to harmful fumes, and long-term chemical exposure also increase the risk.

COPD mainly develops from two conditions:

● Emphysema

Fragile alveolar walls collapse, trapping air inside the lungs.

● Chronic Bronchitis

The bronchial tubes become inflamed and narrow. Excess mucus further blocks airflow.

Symptoms

COPD symptoms appear only after significant lung damage. Common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath during activities
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness
• Chronic cough with colored mucus
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Low energy
• Unintended weight loss (late stages)
• Swelling in ankles, feet, or legs

Diagnosis

Early diagnosis is crucial for better outcomes. Doctors consider several factors while identifying COPD.

Medical History

Exposure to smoke, pollutants, and family history are carefully assessed.

Physical Examination

Doctors check blood pressure, throat, nose, and look for swelling in the feet and ankles.

Diagnostic Tests

The most common test is spirometry, which measures how much air a person can inhale or exhale and how fast.

Other tests include:

• Pulse Oximetry – Measures oxygen levels
• Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) – Checks oxygen & carbon dioxide
• ECG/EKG – Evaluates heart function
• Chest X-ray or CT scan – Detects lung changes
• Exercise Testing – Checks oxygen drop during activity

Treatments

COPD treatment aims to relieve symptoms and prevent further lung damage. Doctors may recommend:

• Bronchodilators – Help open airways
• Anti-inflammatory medicines – Reduce inflammation
• Supplemental Oxygen – For low oxygen levels
• Antibiotics – Prevent or treat infections
• Vaccinations – Protect against flu and pneumonia
• Anticholinergics – Clear mucus
• Leukotriene Modifiers – Reduce airway tightening
• Expectorants – Thin mucus
• Antihistamines – Reduce allergy symptoms
• Antivirals – Manage viral infections like influenza

Prevention

Preventing COPD is easier than treating it. You can reduce your risk by:

• Quitting smoking
• Getting vaccinated for pneumococcal pneumonia
• Avoiding exposure to harmful fumes and chemicals
• Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet
• Exercising regularly

COPD is a serious but manageable disease. While lung damage cannot be reversed, timely treatment and lifestyle changes can help improve breathing and maintain daily activities. Stay hopeful, take preventive steps, and seek medical care at the right time.

FAQ

Q1. What is COPD and how does it affect the lungs?

COPD is a chronic lung disease that narrows airways and traps air in the lungs, making breathing difficult.

Q2. What are the early symptoms of COPD?

Early symptoms include shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing, and low energy.

Q3. How is COPD diagnosed?

COPD is diagnosed through spirometry, chest X-rays, ABG tests, pulse oximetry, and medical history assessment.

Q4. Can COPD be cured?

There is no cure for COPD, but early diagnosis and treatment can slow disease progression and improve quality of life.

Q5. What lifestyle changes help manage COPD?

Quit smoking, avoid polluted air, eat healthy, exercise safely, and get vaccinated against infections.