COPD – or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – is the term that is used to denote emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Many times, those two conditions coexist, which is why the term COPD is often used. Basically, COPD is a lung disease wherein the airflow of the respiratory system is blocked or compromised. Damage to the body’s airways results in the interference of the exchanges of carbon dioxide and oxygen, which brings about many serious health complications. Understanding what COPD is – and what it isn’t – can help you avoid it in the future.

The Symptoms of COPD

Since COPD involves two separate conditions (chronic bronchitis and emphysema), it’s helpful to look at each condition’s specific symptoms.

Chronic Bronchitis Symptoms:

  • shortness of breath
  • recurring respiratory infections
  • the frequent need to clear your throat first thing in the morning; this is especially true among smokers
  • a chronic cough that often produces a yellow-colored sputum

Emphysema Symptoms:

  • a feeling of tightness in the chest
  • shortness of breath that is especially noticeable during physical activities
  • wheezing

Many times, symptoms from both conditions occur simultaneously or interchangeably with COPD.

What Causes COPD?

In order to function properly, your respiratory system relies on the elasticity and flexibility of its passageways. When those passageways become damaged, they become less elastic and can even collapse upon exhaling, trapping air inside. COPD is caused by two chronic conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. With emphysema, inflammation in the walls of the alveoli impedes airflow from your lungs. With chronic bronchitis, the bronchial tubes become narrowed.

The vast majority of the damage that causes COPD is caused by cigarette smoking. That being said, many other airborne irritants can cause damage to the airways and bring on COPD as well, including air pollution, occupation fumes and secondhand smoke.

Are You at Risk?

There are several risk factors for developing COPD. They include:

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease – Also known as GERD, it is a form of acid reflux that can cause COPD or exacerbate it.
  • Tobacco Smoke – Whether you personally smoke or are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke, tobacco is a leading risk factor for COPD.
  • Occupational Exposures – Being regularly exposed to noxious fumes and dust can bring on COPD.
  • Genetics – Although rare, a genetic disorder called alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency is believed to cause COPD.
  • Age – The symptoms of COPD usually don’t begin until after age 40, so age is a definite risk factor.

The Sobering Statistics of COPD

In 1990, COPD was the sixth-leading cause of death in the entire world. By 2030, it is estimated that COPD will be the fourth-leading cause of death because of smoking and other key demographic factors. In the United States, COPD is already the fourth-leading cause of death and costs the healthcare industry approximately $42.6 billion each and every year. Without a doubt, COPD is a serious condition that affects the lives of millions of people each year.

Avoiding COPD

Now that you know a little bit about COPD, you would probably like to avoid it at all costs. One of the best ways of doing so is not smoking. If you currently smoke, quit. If you don’t smoke, avoid picking up the habit. Similarly, if you live with smokers, insist that they smoke well outside the house. Avoid secondhand smoke as much as possible. If you work a job that exposes you to noxious fumes regularly, make sure that you are protecting yourself as much as you can.

The Importance of Good Indoor Air Quality

Since airborne pollution can trigger COPD, it is clear that indoor air quality is an important consideration. Even if you think the air in your home is clean, chances are that it’s actually two to five times dirtier than the air outside. Since you spend so much time at home, it makes sense to keep its indoor air quality as clean as possible. The best way to facilitate clean air in the home is through the use of a HEPA air purifier.

Improving the indoor air quality of your home is a whole lot easier when you use a HEPA air purifier. HEPA filters remove 99.97% of airborne particulates down to 0.3 microns, including fine dust, soot, pollen, dander and mold spores. At Clean Air Plus, we sell the very best HEPA air purifiers on the market today. By purchasing one and using it, you can keep the air in your home as clean as possible. Order your HEPA air purifier today!

Post to Twitter

Related posts:

  1. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) – An Overview
  2. COPD Is Deadly but Preventable
  3. Simple Steps to Prevent the Flu
  4. Easy Ways to Keep the Air in Your Home Safe
  5. CDC Recommends HEPA Air Filters to Prevent the Spread of Swine Flu
  6. Six Ways to Avoid the Sniffles This Fall
  7. Air Pollution and Chronic Lung Disease
  8. Air Pollution Affecting Our Health in Surprising Ways, New Studies Reveal
  9. Top Ways to Achieve Sinus Relief
  10. The Dangers of Smoke