COPD: A Chronic Respiratory Challenge

Verified by Dr Rohan Aurangabadwalla, Consultant Pulmonology at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai

COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a condition caused by damage to the airways or other parts of the lung. This damage leads to inflammation and other problems that block airflow and make it hard to breathe. 

COPD can cause coughing that produces large amounts of a slimy substance called mucus. It can also cause breathing problems, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and other symptoms. Because COPD is a progressive disease, its symptoms often develop slowly but worsen over time and can limit your ability to do routine activities. Serious COPD may prevent you from doing even basic activities such as walking, cooking, or taking care of yourself.

The term COPD refers to two main conditions:

• Emphysema develops when there is damage to the walls between many of the air sacs in the lungs. Normally, these sacs are elastic or stretchy. When you breathe in, each air sac fills up with air, like a small balloon. When you breathe out, the air sacs deflate, and the air goes out. In emphysema, it is harder for your lungs to move air out of your body. 
• Chronic (long-term) bronchitis is caused by repeated or constant irritation and inflammation in the lining of the airways. A lot of thick mucus forms in the airways, making it hard to breathe.

Causes and Risk Factors

The primary cause of COPD is long-term exposure to lung irritants. Smoking is the leading contributor, accounting for the majority of cases. Other causes include prolonged exposure to air pollution, biomass fuel exposure like Choolah smoke, occupational dust and chemicals, and secondhand smoke. Genetic factors, such as Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, can also predispose individuals to COPD, even in non-smokers.

Symptoms of COPD

• Persistent cough with mucus (often called “smoker’s cough”).
• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activities.
• Wheezing and chest tightness.
• Frequent respiratory infections.
• Fatigue due to reduced oxygen levels.

Diagnosis and Management

COPD is diagnosed based on symptoms, lung function tests and imaging (chest X-rays or CT scans). While it cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively. Treatment options include:

• Medications: Bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and antibiotics if needed (for infections).
• Lifestyle Changes: Smoking cessation, avoiding lung irritants, and maintaining a healthy diet.
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Exercises to strengthen respiratory muscles and improve endurance.
• Advanced Therapies: Oxygen therapy or BiPAP/ NIV in severe cases, surgery and lung transplantation.

Connect with our expert, Dr Rohan Aurangabadwalla, Consultant Pulmonology at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai

Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment