What is COPD?

Do you have COPD?

When we breathe, air travels from our nose and mouth down through our airways to our lungs. Having COPD means that your airways are obstructed and the tissue inside the lungs is damaged.

The term COPD covers conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. With emphysema the air sacs in the lungs are gradually destroyed so people have difficulty absorbing enough oxygen. With chronic bronchitis the airways may also become narrower, and have increased mucus production and inflammation.

What are the symptoms of COPD?

Some symptoms of COPD are:

  • coughing
  • increased phlegm
  • breathlessness

What is the difference between asthma and COPD?

The symptoms of COPD are similar to asthma, and some people may have both conditions. However in asthma, the narrowing of the airways is normally reversible. COPD is largely non-reversible, because it cannot be 'cured,' but the symptoms can be controlled and further damage prevented.