How to prevent COPD, a chronic lung disease

Unfortunately, COPD symptoms do not appear until after significant lung damage has already occurred. — 123rf.com

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most often from cigarette smoke.

People with COPD are at increased risk of developing heart disease, lung cancer, pulmonary hypertension and depression.