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What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease? Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease refers to a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the the tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs are partly obstructed, making it difficult to get air in and out. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease develops slowly, and it may be many years before you notice symptoms like feeling short of breath. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease includes emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and in some cases asthma. It is not contagious-you cannot catch it from someone else. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is also called COPD. What Causes Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease? There are many different causes of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Some common causes are: Cigarette smoking and inhalation of lung irritants, like pollution, dust, or chemicals over a long period of time. Can Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease be Treated? Yes. Treatments are aimed at reducing the symptoms. The most important aspect of treatment is to avoid inhaling lung irritants. This may involve avoiding tobacco smoke, removing other air pollutants from the patient’s home or workplace, or changing jobs. Coughing and wheezing wheezing can be treated with medication. Respiratory infections can be treated with antibiotics. Patients who have low blood oxygen levels in their blood are often given supplemental oxygen. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease cannot be cured.
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