This week we're focusing on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD):

Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are often grouped under the term COPD, which is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. Obstructive lung diseases block or obstruct the normal flow of air through the respiratory system. This airflow obstruction is generally progressive.

Cigarette smoking is the most serious risk factor for chronic bronchitis, which involves inflammation and plugging of the air tubes in the lungs. In clinical terms, chronic bronchitis is characterized by the presence of chronic cough with excessive sputum production on most days for a minimum of three months out of the year for at least two consecutive years.

Emphysema involves actual physical deterioration of the lungs. The alveoli lose their elasticity and can no longer expand and contract completely; therefore, the normal exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide cannot occur. As with chronic bronchitis, smoking is the primary risk factor. Symptoms can include progressive shortness of breath with lesser degree of activity over time, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

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