Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) causes breathing problems that can make it difficult to do the things you normally do each day. This guide helps you understand what COPD is, how it’s treated and where to find others with COPD on the Web.
Expand All Guide SectionsWhat is COPD?
COPD refers to two diseases: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Together, these diseases are the ... read more »
COPD Symptoms and Diagnosis
Doctors use a number of methods, such as X-rays and breathing tests, to determine whether someone has COPD. This section explains how COPD is diagnosed and treated.
Dulcinea's Insight
- Though smoking is thought to be one of the biggest risk factors for COPD, up to one in six people who have the disease never smoked, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Genetics and environmental factors can also play a role.
- Women have been diagnosed with COPD more than men in recent years, probably because their smoking rates increased after the 1940s, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Dulcinea's Picks
For COPD signs …
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
lists signs of COPD, such as coughing up mucus, chest tightness and wheezing.
To help assess whether someone has COPD …
The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease
has a five-question quiz that can help assess whether you have COPD. This questionnaire isn’t a substitute for a doctor’s diagnosis, but it can be used to talk to your doctor about your concerns.
For tests used to diagnose COPD …
American Thoracic Society
explains, in detail, the tests doctors use to assess a person’s lung function and diagnose COPD or other breathing disorders. Learn what to expect during some of the tests and how to prepare for them.
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
describes the different lung function tests a person may take. Click on “Next” at the bottom of the page to read more. This article also covers what to expect before and during the tests.
Treating and Preventing COPD
Treating COPD can take many paths. Doctors often use medication and, depending on the ... read more »
COPD Management and Support
The Web is a good place to find other people who have COPD. There are many blogs, forums and ... read more »
COPD News and Research
New discoveries about chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder and how it is detected, managed and ... read more »
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