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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Basics

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Definition

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common lung diseases. It makes it difficult to breathe. There are two main forms of COPD:

Most people with COPD have a combination of both conditions.

Symptoms

  • Cough with mucus
  • Shortness of breath (dyspnea) that gets worse with mild activity
  • Fatigue
  • Frequent respiratory infections
  • Wheezing

Since the symptoms of COPD develop slowly, some people may be unaware that they are sick.

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