COPD - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

COPD is a long-term illness in which breathing becomes more and more of a challenge. The flow of air into and out of your lungs is reduced, and you may become short of breath and get tired very easily.

COPD is a progressive disease. This means that symptoms will gradually get worse as time goes on. There is no cure for COPD, but there is a lot that you and your healthcare providers can do to ease the symptoms of the disease.

The number of people suffering from COPD is growing because of past decades of cigarette use in this country. It is now the third leading cause of death.

The following online resources for seniors provide access to reliable information about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and related conditions:

MedlinePlus COPD: Information from the National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus Chronic Bronchitis: Information from the National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus Emphysema: Information from the National Library of Medicine

COPD Basic Facts & Information: Information from HealthinAging.org

Learn About COPD: Information from the American Lung Association

Quitting Smoking

The most common cause of COPD is cigarette smoking. If you smoke, quitting can help prevent you from getting the disease. If you already have emphysema, not smoking might keep it from getting worse.

MedlinePlus Smoking Cessation: Resources for stopping smoking from the National Library of Medicine

Quitting Smoking for Older Adults: Information from the National Institute on Aging