COPD

What is COPD?

COPD is a group of lung diseases that most usually includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both.

• Chronic bronchitis: the swelling of the main airways in the lungs. The airways also produce more mucus than normal.
• Emphysema: damage to the air sacs in the lungs. Damaged air sacs cannot be repaired.

COPD is a lung disease that causes problems with your breathing. These breathing problems occur when your lungs have trouble bringing in healthy new air or pushing “used” air out.

• Chronic – persistent, doesn’t go away
• Obstructive – partly blocks the flow of air from the lungs
• Pulmonary – pertains to the lungs
• Disease – a sickness

Learn more

• COPD facts
• What causes COPD
• Symptoms of COPD
• How to manage COPD
• Important COPD reminders
• COPD medications
• Summary

Print a PDF version of this brochure:
COPD Brochure