COPD is a collective name for a number of chronic lung diseases.
In normal breathing, air travels through the nose and windpipe into narrowing airways called the bronchi. The bronchi branch into bronchioles and eventually into small clusters of thin, delicate sacs, the alveoli (medical name: alveoli).
COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) falls under the category of diseases that block the airflow and cause breathing problems. emphysema is a disease that destroys the alveoli and the alveoli. The lungs lose their elasticity, and large air cavities form. These cavities reduce the surface area that our bodies need to absorb oxygen and release carbon dioxide.
Bronchitis is inflammation of the lining of the bronchi. Chronic bronchitis is the result of persistent inflammation of these airways. Mucus is constantly being produced and over time the lining of the bronchi thicker. This hinders the outflow of air during breathing.
COPD is caused by: 1) tobacco, 2) exposure to air pollution at home and at work and 3) hereditary factors also play a role.