Know About COPD!

**Copd*

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (copd) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. It's caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most often from cigarette smoke.

Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common conditions that contribute to copd.
*chronic bronchitis* is inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. It's characterized by daily cough and mucus (sputum) production.

*emphysema* is a condition in which the alveoli at the end of the smallest air passages (bronchioles) of the lungs are destroyed as a result of damaging exposure to cigarette smoke and other irritating gases and particulate matter.

*Risk factors*

-the most significant risk factor for copd is long-term cigarette smoking.
-occupational exposure to dusts and chemicals. Long-term exposure to chemical fumes, vapors and dusts in the workplace can irritate and inflame the lungs.
-the uncommon genetic disorder alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency is the cause of some cases of copd.

*Sign & symptoms*

-shortness of breath, wheezing chest, with tightness.
-chronic cough may be clear, white, yellow or greenish.
-blueness of the lips or fingernail beds (cyanosis).
-frequent respiratory infections.
-lack of energy
-unintended weight loss.
-swelling in ankles, feet or legs

*Investigation*

-pulmonary function tests measure the amount of air you can inhale and exhale, and if your lungs are delivering enough oxygen to your blood.
-spirometry is the most common lung function test. It can detect copd even before onset of symptoms.
-chest x-ray. A chest x-ray can show emphysema, an x-ray can also rule out other lung problems or heart failure.
-ct scans can also be used to screen for lung cancer.
-arterial blood gas analysis.
-alpha-1-antitrypsin (aat) deficiency.

*Complications*

-recurrent respiratory infections. Any respiratory infection can make it much more difficult to breathe and could cause further damage to lung tissue. 
-heart problems.
-lung cancer. 
-pulmonary hypertension.
-depression.