COPD: learn all about the lung disease - COPD is a lung disease that affects breathing. There is no cure, but treatment is available and there are ways to prevent the disease, which according to the World Health Organization, may be the third leading cause of death in 2020. Check out the gallery and learn more about COPD, its cause,s and treatments.

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What is COPD? - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a disease characterized by irreversible or partially reversible bronchial obstruction (if treated correctly).

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Evolution - According to the BBC, the disease progresses slowly and is often mistaken for a simple cough.

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Worrying - Many sufferers do not take the condition seriously until it adversely affects their life.

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Causes - Tobacco is the most common cause of COPD. Smoke stimulates mucus production and causes airflow obstruction.

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Cigarettes - You may not be a smoker, but passive smoking may harm you.

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Pollution - Environmental pollution is also another cause of the disease.

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Infections - Respiratory infections in childhood can also contribute.

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Genetics - Genetic factors may also be one of the causes of COPD.

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Smoke - People who are exposed to smoke, gases, and chemicals substances that cause respiratory irritation are at risk.

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Symptoms - Symptoms can include chronic cough and phlegm, as well as respiratory infections, mainly in winter.

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Breathing - Difficulty breathing (dyspnea) and wheezing are other symptoms.

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Chest - Chest tightness is another symptom.

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Risk group - Patients over 40, smokers, or people regularly exposed to fumes or dusts should consult a doctor if they exhibit symptoms such as phlegm and tiredness.

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Diagnostic - Pulmonary function testing should be done to diagnose COPD.

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Treatment - It is critical to quit smoking to prevent and minimize symptoms of the disease.

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Treatment - Bronchodilators may also help in the treatment of the disease, but should only be used when recommended by a doctor if the severity of the disease requires it.

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Treatment - Oxygen can also be used to relieve symptoms if there is partial respiratory failure.

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Ventilation - Non-invasive ventilation may be an alternative if there is full respiratory failure.

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Physiotherapy - Respiratory physiotherapy may also be an appropriate method of treating the disease.

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Vaccine - Childhood vaccination against respiratory infections also greatly helps in the prevention of COPD.

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Diet - A healthy diet helps prevent, and can even treat, COPD.

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Exercise - Exercising, especially in places where the air is unpolluted, is also beneficial.

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Pollution mask - The use of protection is critical to prevent further damage. Those who are exposed to pollution regularly should consider wearing a mask.

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Outlook - According to the World Health Organization, COPD will be the third leading cause of death in 2020.

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