What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)? In this video I explain it in a simple way. COPD is a very common lung condition. The main symptoms are excessive breathlessness on exertion and a productive cough (clearing sputum).

COPD is a combination of two other conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

Emphysema means that the lung tissue thins out and there is less surface area for the lungs to exchange oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Chronic bronchitis means that there is frequent coughing with sputum production, usually on most days, for at least three consecutive months each year (at least 2 consecutive years). This is the standard definition.

Both chronic bronchitis and emphysema coexist in people with COPD, but in different proportions. Therefore, not all people with COPD have the same symptoms. Some may have more breathlessness, whereas others may have more cough and sputum production. Some COPD patients also have more frequent flare-ups (exacerbations). There can also be an overlap between COPD and asthma.

The main cause of COPD is smoking or inhalation of noxious fumes and dusts, either at home or in the workplace. Some people are genetically more predisposed to getting COPD, and will be more sensitive to the effects of inhaling noxious fumes or smoke.

#copd #emphysema #bronchitis

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Disclaimers:
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For all viewers/listeners:
The information presented here or in other videos and posts on this channel is not medical advice. These materials reflect general medical knowledge which may not apply to your individual case. If you have health concerns, please see your own doctor or other healthcare provider without delay.

For medical professionals:
You must use your professional judgement when treating your patients. The information presented in this and other videos/posts on this channel is for general medical education only. It may not apply to all patients or clinical scenarios.
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