COPD: When Breathing Feels Like Work
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) makes the lungs feel like they are carrying sandbags. It includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, both of which make breathing harder over time.
Symptoms
• Chronic cough
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Fatigue
Major Causes
• Smoking (most common)
• Secondhand smoke
• Air pollution
• Workplace exposures
• Genetics (rare)
Living Better with COPD
• Stop smoking
• Pulmonary rehab
• Inhalers and medications
• Vaccines to prevent infections
• Light exercise
• Oxygen therapy for severe cases
COPD can slow you down, but with the right plan, it doesn’t have to stop your life.
