When You Have COPD

With COPD, the normal flow of air is blocked by excess mucus and inflammation (chronic bronchitis), by collapsed airways (emphysema), or by tightening of the muscles around the airways (chronic asthma). As a result, you feel short of breath. You may also cough, wheeze, or feel weak. many people who are diagnosed with COPD have more than one of these conditions.

When You Have COPD

With COPD, the normal flow of air is blocked by excess mucus and inflammation (chronic bronchitis), by collapsed airways (emphysema), or by tightening of the muscles around the airways (chronic asthma). As a result, you feel short of breath. You may also cough, wheeze, or feel weak. many people who are diagnosed with COPD have more than one of these conditions.

Emphysema

Emphysema destroys the alveoli making it hard for the lungs to absorb enough oxygen or get rid of the carbon dioxide. The walls of the alveoli lose their elasticity and enlarge. The bronchioles also become less elastic, and narrow or collapse when you exhale. As a result, carbon dioxide gets trapped in the airways and prevents oxygen from getting to the blood.

Chronic Asthma

Asthma is hypersensitivity of the airways to allergens or irritants, which inflame the lining of the bronchioles. When the lining swells, the muscles in the bronchial walls tighten and go into spasm. This then further constricts the airways. Inflammation may cause the bronchial lining to produce excess mucus, which blocks the airways as well.