COPD is a lung disease that over time makes it hard to breathe. COPD (short for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Obstruction in COPD means that the flow of air in and out of the lungs is less than it should be. When that happens less oxygen gets into the body tissues and it becomes harder to get rid of carbon dioxide which is the waste gas. As the disease gets worse, it is harder to remain active due to shortness of breath. Most importantly, COPD can be prevented and can be treated.
Understanding COPD from American Lung Association
