Medical Symptom Explainer

Meet C O P D—Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It’s a progressive lung condition that affects over 384 million people worldwide, turning every breath into a struggle.

C O P D is actually a combination of two diseases: emphysema, which destroys the air sacs in your lungs, and chronic bronchitis, which causes inflamed airways clogged with mucus. The key symptoms? Shortness of breath—even during simple tasks—chronic coughing with mucus, wheezing, and constant fatigue.

What are the causes? Smoking is responsible for about 70% of cases. But other triggers include air pollution, toxic fumes or dust at work, and even genetic factors, like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

There’s no cure, but treatment can make a real difference.

Bronchodilator inhalers help open up your airways. Pulmonary rehab builds strength and teaches better breathing. In more advanced cases, oxygen therapy may be needed. And don’t forget vaccines—they’re crucial for preventing lung infections.

While no cure exists, quitting smoking and early action slow progression. Suspect C O P D? Talk to your doctor about a spirometry test. It’s simple—and it could help you breathe easier and live fuller.