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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a type of progressive lung disease characterized by chronic respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. [8] GOLD 2024 defined COPD as a heterogeneous lung condition characterized by chronic respiratory symptoms (dyspnea or shortness of breath, cough, sputum production or exacerbations) due to abnormalities of the airways (bronchitis ...
Emphysema is a respiratory disease of the lower respiratory tract. [7] It is commonly caused by tobacco smoking but some people are affected who have never smoked. [14] The presence of emphysema is a clear risk factor for lung cancer, made stronger in those who smoke. [20] Early symptoms of emphysema vary.
Although COPD shares similar characteristics with all other obstructive lung diseases, such as the signs of coughing and wheezing, they are distinct conditions in terms of disease onset, frequency of symptoms, and reversibility of airway obstruction. [1] Cystic fibrosis is also sometimes included in obstructive pulmonary disease. [2]
Emphysema symptoms. Symptoms of emphysema include: Shortness of breath, especially with physical activity. Wheezing and other abnormal sounds during breathing. Coughing. Chest tightness or heaviness.
Patients may watch for symptoms, such as shortness of breath, change in character or amount of mucus, and start self-treatment as discussed with a health care provider. This allows for treatment right away until a doctor can be seen. [5] The symptoms of acute exacerbations are treated using short-acting bronchodilators.
COPD, and more specifically emphysema, often lead to hyperexpansion of the lungs due to air trapping. The resulting flattened diaphragm contracts downwards on inspiration, thereby paradoxically pulling the inferior ribs inwards with its movement.
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