Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic condition characterized by irreversible lung damage, which leads to symptoms like difficulty breathing and cough. It typically involves both emphysema, in which air sacs in the lungd lose elasticity, and chronic bronchitis, which is marked by airway inflammation and increased mucus production.

The main signs and symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) include shortness of breath, wheezing, chronic cough with mucus, and fatigue and potential additional symptoms such as frequent infections, a blue tint to lips or fingernails, unintentional weight loss, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, and increased cardiovascular disease risk. The severity of the disease influences the variation in symptoms experienced by different people.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is diagnosed when a person exhibits long-term breathing difficulties and cough, particularly if they have risk factors like smoking or pollution exposure. Healthcare providers use a combination of signs, symptoms, medical histories, and various tests to confirm the diagnosis.

The main treatments for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) include quitting smoking and using inhalers (specifically bronchodilators) to manage symptoms and prevent exacerbations. The choice and frequency of inhaler use depend on the person's symptom severity and exacerbation history.

Few supplements have been studied for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and there is no strong evidence to support their effectiveness. Some examples of these supplements include beetroot juice, chlorella, honey, and black seed oil.

A diet with antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables may lower the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but its effectiveness in managing symptoms is uncertain. Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for people with COPD because malnutrition can lead to worsened outcomes that include muscle wasting and reduced quality of life.

Exercise is recommended to help manage symptoms and progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with an emphasis on maintaining a regular exercise program rather than a specific type of exercise.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is primarily caused by long-term exposure to lung irritants, and cigarette smoke is the leading cause in the U.S. Other contributing factors include inhaling various types of smoke, pollution, chemical fumes, and a genetic condition known as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.