Also known as smoker's lung, chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
COPD is long-term lung damage that makes the airways narrow permanently, causing breathlessness and a chronic cough. Smoking is the biggest cause worldwide, but in Nigeria years of cooking over firewood or charcoal smoke is an important cause, especially in women. Damage cannot be reversed, but treatment slows it down.
Symptoms
Breathlessness, worse with activity
Chronic cough with phlegm, especially mornings
Wheezing
Frequent chest infections
Tiredness
Weight loss in advanced disease
Causes & risk factors
Long-term tobacco smoking
Years of exposure to firewood, charcoal or kerosene smoke
Occupational dust and fumes
Long-standing, poorly controlled asthma
Treatment & self-care
The single most important step is stopping smoking and reducing smoke exposure (cleaner cooking fuels, ventilation). Doctors prescribe inhalers to open the airways, treat flare-ups promptly and may add pulmonary rehabilitation exercises. Vaccinations against flu and pneumonia help prevent dangerous infections.
See a doctor urgently if
Breathlessness suddenly worse than usual
Coughing up more phlegm that turns yellow or green
Swollen ankles or bluish lips
Confusion or extreme drowsiness during a flare-up
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?
Early signs often include breathlessness, worse with activity, chronic cough with phlegm, especially mornings, wheezing. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) be treated?
The single most important step is stopping smoking and reducing smoke exposure (cleaner cooking fuels, ventilation). Doctors prescribe inhalers to open the airways, treat flare-ups promptly and may add pulmonary rehabilitation exercises. Vaccinations against flu and pneumonia help prevent dangerous infections.
When should I see a doctor about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: breathlessness suddenly worse than usual; coughing up more phlegm that turns yellow or green; swollen ankles or bluish lips; confusion or extreme drowsiness during a flare-up.