Overview

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. It is caused by damage to the lungs over many years, usually from smoking.

Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are two lung problems that are types of COPD:

• Chronic bronchitis: The airways that carry air to the lungs (bronchial tubes) get inflamed and make a lot of mucus. This can narrow or block the airways. It can also make you cough.
• Emphysema: The tiny air sacs (alveoli) at the end of the airways in the lungs are damaged. When the air sacs are damaged or destroyed, the inner walls break down, and the sacs become larger. These larger air sacs move less oxygen into the blood. This causes difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that gets worse over time. After air sacs are destroyed, they cannot be replaced.

Many people with COPD have attacks called flare-ups or exacerbations. This is when your usual symptoms quickly get worse and stay worse.

If you notice any problems or new symptoms, get medical treatment right away.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. You may be taking medicines such as:
  • Bronchodilators. These help open your airways and make breathing easier.
  • Corticosteroids. These reduce airway inflammation. They may be given as pills, in a vein, or in an inhaled form. You may go home with pills in addition to an inhaler that you already use.
• A spacer may help you get more inhaled medicine to your lungs. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if a spacer is right for you. If it is, ask how to use it properly.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• If your doctor prescribed oxygen, use the flow rate your doctor has recommended. Do not change it without talking to your doctor first.
• Do not smoke. Smoking makes COPD worse. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.