Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common chronic disease characterized by airflow obstruction, which includes chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema, and can further develop into cor pulmonale and respiratory failure. The ventilatory impairment in COPD is often progressively aggravated and accompanied by an abnormal inflammatory response in the lungs to harmful particles or gases, primarily caused by smoking. This disease is more common in people over 60 years old. The main symptoms include long-term chronic cough, sputum production, and significant shortness of breath during activity. As COPD symptoms worsen, even simple tasks such as dressing or cooking can cause shortness of breath.