COPD

Diagram showing COPD as a combination of emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

What causes COPD?

Cigarette smoking is far and away the leading cause of COPD. Most of those with COPD are current or former smokers. Heredity, childhood respiratory infections, and long-term exposure to other lung irritants, such as air pollution, chemical fumes, or dust may contribute to or cause COPD.

What causes COPD? Read More »

Anatomical illustration of the human lungs showing bronchial tubes and alveoli.

November is COPD Awareness Month. (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) In COPD, less air flows in and out of the airways because of one or more of the following: The airways and air sacs lose their elasticity. Elasticity is the stretchiness your lungs need to fill up with and push out air. In COPD, these sacs

Read More »