If you have been diagnoses with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease then there is a good chance that you may also have chronic bronchitis and possibly emphysema.
What does C.O.P.D. actually mean?
• Chronic – something that continually recurs. Example chronic bronchitis vs. Acute Bronchitis (short acting)
• Obstructive- Something that is blocked such as your airway
• Pulmonary – Includes most things that have to do with your lungs
• Disease- an infection that is making or has made you sick.
Therefore if we look at C.O.P.D. we see that we have a disease that causes one to have trouble getting air in and out of your lungs due to the obstruction. One continuously feels like they cannot catch their breath.
What is Chronic Bronchitis?
Chronic Bronchitis occurs when a partial yet permanent blockage of the airways has occurred. This causes swelling in the lungs and irritation especially when there is smoke, dust or pollen around. There is also a higher risk of pneumonia because of all of the mucus that is involved. Chronic Bronchitis unlike Acute Bronchitis continually recurs so you need to get to the doctor if you believe you have it.
What is Emphysema?
Alveoli which are actually very small sacs located at the end our airways are extremely affected by emphysema. When you have emphysema the very fragile and almost see through walls of the air sacks become distended and eventually they will even be destroyed. There are then holes that are permanent in your lungs which causes someone with emphysema shortness of breath. The lungs elastic ability is also compromised which causes some of the airways which are smaller to collapse which then traps air into the lower lung.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder has some similar side effects to other breathing and lung ailments and as such is sometimes misdiagnosed. If you believe you have COPD see a doctor.