COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a progressive disease that makes it hard to breathe. “Progressive” meaning the disease gets worse over time.
COPD can cause coughing that produces large amounts of mucus, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and other symptoms.
Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of COPD. Most people who have COPD smoke or used to smoke. Long-term exposure to other lung irritants, such as air pollution, chemical fumes, or dust, also may contribute to COPD.
COPD develops slowly. Symptoms often worsen over time and can limit your ability to do routine activities. Severe COPD may prevent you from doing even basic activities like walking, cooking, or taking care of yourself.
COPD is a major cause of disability and it’s the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. More than 12 million people are currently diagnosed with COPD. An additional 12 million likely have the disease and don’t even know it.
Most of the time, COPD is diagnosed in middle-aged or older people. The disease isn’t passed from person to person—you can’t catch it from someone else.
To learn more about COPD and how to manage it, you’re invited to join the pulmonary team at Lahey Clinic for a free six week seminar series. Details below:
WHAT: COPD Seminar Series
WHEN: Thursday, February 25, 5pm – 7pm
WHERE: Lahey Clinic, 41 Mall Road, Burlington, MA
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call 781-744-COPD (2673) or visit our website at www.lahey.org
What Is COPD and How Can It Be Managed?
COPD can cause coughing that produces large amounts of mucus, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and other symptoms.
Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of COPD. Most people who have COPD smoke or used to smoke. Long-term exposure to other lung irritants, such as air pollution, chemical fumes, or dust, also may contribute to COPD.
COPD develops slowly. Symptoms often worsen over time and can limit your ability to do routine activities. Severe COPD may prevent you from doing even basic activities like walking, cooking, or taking care of yourself.
COPD is a major cause of disability and it’s the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. More than 12 million people are currently diagnosed with COPD. An additional 12 million likely have the disease and don’t even know it.
Most of the time, COPD is diagnosed in middle-aged or older people. The disease isn’t passed from person to person—you can’t catch it from someone else.
To learn more about COPD and how to manage it, you’re invited to join the pulmonary team at Lahey Clinic for a free six week seminar series. Details below:
WHAT: COPD Seminar Series
WHEN: Thursday, February 25, 5pm – 7pm
WHERE: Lahey Clinic, 41 Mall Road, Burlington, MA
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call 781-744-COPD (2673) or visit our website at www.lahey.org