Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs.  Symptoms include breathing difficulty, cough, mucus (sputum) production and wheezing.  It’s 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 and a variety of other conditions.

Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common conditions that contribute to COPD.  Chronic bronchitis is inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs. It’s characterized by daily cough and mucus (sputum) production.

Emphysema is a condition in which the alveoli at the end of the smallest air passages (bronchioles) of the lungs are destroyed as a result of damaging exposure to cigarette smoke and other irritating gases and particulate matter.

COPD is treatable. With proper management, most people with COPD can achieve good symptom control and quality of life, as well as reduced risk of other associated conditions.

COPD symptoms often don’t appear until significant lung damage has occurred, and they usually worsen over time, particularly if smoking exposure continues. For chronic bronchitis, the main symptom is a daily cough and mucus (sputum) production at least three months a year for two consecutive years.

Other signs and symptoms of COPD may include:

• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activities

• Wheezing

• Chest tightness

• Having to clear your throat first thing in the morning, due to excess mucus in your lungs

• A chronic cough that may produce mucus (sputum) that may be clear, white, yellow or greenish

• Blueness of the lips or fingernail beds (cyanosis)

• Frequent respiratory infections

• Lack of energy

• Unintended weight loss (in later stages)

• Swelling in ankles, feet or legs

Dr. Whiteley has many years of experience treating patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.  If you think you are have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or if you have already been diagnosed with COPD Doctor Whiteley encourages you to schedule an appointment to have your case evaluated.  Arrangements can be made to customize your care for your personal needs