Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) significantly reduces lung function. It primarily affects the airways and air sacs in your lungs, causing persistent breathing problems. This damage restricts airflow, making it difficult to breathe.
Airway Damage
COPD causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways. Mucus production increases, further obstructing airflow. This leads to wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, particularly during exertion.
Alveoli Destruction
The tiny air sacs in your lungs, called alveoli, are responsible for gas exchange. COPD destroys these alveoli, reducing the surface area available for oxygen absorption and carbon dioxide expulsion. This contributes to chronic hypoxia (low blood oxygen levels).
Impact on Gas Exchange
The combined effects of airway narrowing and alveoli destruction result in impaired gas exchange. Your body doesn’t receive enough oxygen, and carbon dioxide removal is less efficient. This can lead to various complications, including increased heart rate and shortness of breath.
COPD Severity Stages
| Mild | >80% | Occasional shortness of breath during exertion |
| Moderate | 50-79% | Shortness of breath with moderate exertion, frequent coughing |
| Severe | 30-49% | Significant shortness of breath with minimal exertion, frequent exacerbations |
| Very Severe | Severe shortness of breath at rest, frequent hospitalizations |
Long-Term Effects
Untreated or poorly managed COPD leads to progressive lung damage and can reduce life expectancy. Regular checkups with your doctor, medication adherence, and lifestyle changes are crucial for managing the condition and improving quality of life. Pulmonary rehabilitation can significantly improve symptoms and exercise tolerance.
