Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is really two related slowly progressing lung diseases. Chronic bronchitis and emphysema.  Both cause airflow obstruction and progressive lung damage.  They are often related to smoking or frequent infections during childhood.  COPD results in irreversible structural damage to the lungs, blocking the airflow and making breathing difficult.  There is currently no cure, but medication and oxygen help relieve the symptoms.  In severe emphysema, surgery is necessary, including possible lung transplant.