Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to illnesses that impair breathing and block the airway. Emphysema and Chronic bronchitis are two forms of COPD.

The following may contribute to COPD:

• Smoking tobacco – is the primary factor in most COPD cases.
• Deficiency of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) caused by a rare genetic disease.
• Exposure to secondhand smoke from being near a smoker or in a smoking zone.
• The burning of biofuels like coal, wood, or animal dung for cooking indoors with inadequate ventilation.
• Exposure at work to dust, chemicals, and toxic fume.

The following are possible COPD signs and symptoms: ¹

• Prolonged Coughing.
• Production of mucous, sputum, or phlegm.
• Breathing difficulties even with light work.
• Difficulty taking long breaths.
• Tightness in the chest.
• Wheezing.
• Weight loss.

The following steps can be taken to prevent or delay the progression of COPD:

• Do not smoke. If necessary, enroll in a program designed to help in quitting smoking.
• Keep a safe distance from individuals who are smoking or sit in smoke-free areas of restaurants, bars, etc. to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Stay away from any place with poor air quality, which includes air that is full of contaminants such as smoke, dust, gases, and vapors. Or mask up to reduce exposure.
• To prevent respiratory infections, avoid interaction with sick people and wash your hands frequently with soap and water.

The following are possible medical complications of COPD:

• Weight loss with muscle wastage.
• Brittle bones/ osteoporosis.
• Depression and memory loss.
• Sleeplessness.
• Lung infections like pneumonia.
• Pulmonary hypertension.
• Respiratory failure.