Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, is a progressive lung condition that makes it difficult to breathe. It is primarily caused by long-term exposure to irritants, such as cigarette smoke and air pollution, which damage the airways and lungs. Symptoms often include persistent cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
There are two main types of COPD: chronic bronchitis, characterized by inflammation and mucus production in the airways, and emphysema, which involves the destruction of the air sacs in the lungs. While there is no cure for COPD, treatments like medications and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.