We know: All About Emphysema and COPDWhat is emphysema?Emphysema is a lung condition in which the air sacs lose their elasticity. The result is that breathing is impaired and air flow is obstructed. What is chronic bronchitis?Chronic bronchitis is a persistent inflammation of the bronchi or the main air passages in the lungs. It is characterized by excessive bronchial mucus and a productive cough that produces mucus for at least 3 months in 2 consecutive years. Put them together and you have COPDCOPD stands for 'chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.' The term means that the patient has both emphysema and chronic bronchitis occurring together. COPD is a major cause of death and illness throughout the world. It is the 4th leading cause of death in the U.S. and the world. What happens to your breathing and lungs with COPD?Less air gets in and less air goes out because:
What are the symptoms of COPD?Most people with COPD are at least 40 years old or around middle age when symptoms start. It is unusual, but possible, for people less than 40 years old to have COPD. The common symptoms of emphysema and COPD are:
What are the causes of emphysema and COPD?Causes include:
What are some of the treatments for emphysema and COPD?Treatments include:
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