Things to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Sixteen million Americans suffer from diagnosed COPD, with millions more likely suffering from the effects but undiagnosed and untreated. If your loved one suffers from breathing challenges, they could have COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). COPD is not just one disease but an identifier for a group of diseases that cause breathing-related problems, including the more commonly known emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

In the past, COPD was thought of as primarily a men’s disease. This is because it affected smokers and people in jobs where large amounts of fumes, dust or chemicals were inhaled, during a time when fewer women were in the workforce. With more women than men now getting COPD, this is no longer the case. In 2017, COPD became the third leading cause of death for women. If your loved one is having trouble breathing and you have not addressed this with their doctor, now is the time.

In the United States, the leading cause of COPD is tobacco smoke. However, exposure to other air pollutants, genetics, and recurring respiratory infections can also play a part. While there might be a genetic component that might make you more likely to get it, it is not contagious.

Because there are so many variations in the diseases that manifest as COPD, there is no single test for it. There is also no cure, only treatment. Based on symptoms, your doctor will determine a course of treatment. Your medical team may include a pulmonologist and physical and respiratory therapists who will work toward treatments that work best for your loved one.