11/25/2025
Let's Explore COPD.
What is COPD?
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a group of progressive lung diseases that block airflow and make breathing difficult. It is often caused by long-term exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke and includes conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Common symptoms include a daily cough, excessive mucus, wheezing, and shortness of breath, which can worsen over time.
Factors
- Emphysema
Damages the tiny air sacs at the end of the airways.
- Chronic Bronchitis
Causes chronic inflammation of the airways, leading to a cough with mucus.
Causes
- Smoking: The main cause of COPD in developed countries due to long-term exposure to cigarette smoke.
- Other irritants: Breathing in other irritants like pipe or cigar smoke, air pollution, dust, or certain chemicals can also cause it.
- Genetics: A rare genetic condition can increase the risk of developing COPD.
Symptoms
- Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity.
- A chronic cough, often with phlegm (sputum).
- Wheezing.
- Chest tightness.
- Tiredness.
- As the disease progresses, symptoms worsen, and flare-ups can occur
November is COPD Awareness Month
HMC's Radiology Team wants to stress the importance of Lung Screenings for COPD and Cancer.
