
Understanding Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A Comprehensive Overview Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common yet serious lung disease that significantly impacts breathing and overall quality of life. Characterized by restricted airflow and breathing problems, COPD encompasses a range of conditions, primarily emphysema and chronic bronchitis. As awareness grows, understanding COPD's causes, symptoms, and management strategies becomes crucial for both patients and caregivers. What is COPD? COPD is a progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe due to airflow obstruction. It typically involves two main conditions: Emphysema : This condition involves damage to the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs, leading to reduced oxygen exchange. Chronic Bronchitis : This condition is marked by inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes, resulting in mucus buildup and persistent cough. Causes and Risk Factors The primary cause of COPD is long-term e...