COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

COPD is the name for a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties because airflow is obstructed. It includes long-term inflammation and narrowing of the airways and damage to the tiny air sacs in the lungs. These changes make it harder to breathe out fully. COPD develops slowly over years and usually becomes noticeable in mid to later life.

COPD is a common cause of long-term illness and breathlessness around the world, particularly among older adults. It most often affects people who smoke or used to smoke, but it can also occur in those exposed to air pollution, smoke from cooking fuels, or dusts and fumes at work. It is frequently underdiagnosed in its early stages.

The main symptoms are increasing breathlessness, especially during activity, a persistent cough that may bring up phlegm, frequent chest infections and wheezing. Symptoms often develop gradually and may be mistaken for normal ageing or a smoker's cough. Over time, everyday activities such as walking or climbing stairs can become more tiring as breathing becomes harder.

COPD is usually caused by long-term exposure to substances that irritate and damage the lungs. Smoking is by far the most common cause. Other contributors include long-term air pollution, secondhand smoke, smoke from indoor cooking and heating fuels, and dusts, fumes or chemicals in the workplace. A rare inherited condition can also raise the risk in some people.

Diagnosis begins with a discussion of symptoms, smoking history and any exposure to lung irritants. The main test is spirometry, a simple breathing test that measures how much air you can breathe out and how quickly, showing whether airflow is obstructed. A chest X-ray or other imaging and blood tests may be used to rule out other conditions and assess overall lung health.

Although existing lung damage cannot be reversed, treatment can ease symptoms and slow progression. Stopping smoking is the single most important step. Care commonly includes inhaled treatments to open the airways, pulmonary rehabilitation with supervised exercise and education, vaccinations to reduce infections, and support for flare-ups. Plans are individual, and regular reviews help keep symptoms under control.

Much of the risk of COPD can be reduced. The most effective step is never smoking, or stopping if you do, which also slows further damage in people who already have COPD. Reducing exposure to air pollution, secondhand smoke and harmful workplace dusts and fumes, using protective measures at work, and staying up to date with recommended vaccinations all help protect the lungs.