4 things to know about the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
The chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD is a lung condition that is characterized by inflammation of the lungs. It leads to an obstruction of the airflow from the lungs, triggering a slew of respiratory ailments. The most common conditions that are included under the umbrella of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease include chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma. An individual suffering from the given conditions may experience increasing breathlessness, frequent wheezing, coughing, and production of mucus.

What are symptoms of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?
The condition is not likely to exhibit any symptoms until there is a significant damage to the lungs. A patient may also experience episodes called exacerbations on some days. It is during this time that the symptoms become worse over several days. A patient must give the physician a detailed explanation of the symptoms, as it is essential for the prognosis of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The symptoms to look out for include:

• Inability to breathe, especially, during physical strain or heavy activities
• Excess mucus in the throat that must be cleared frequently
• Weight loss with no explainable cause
• Swelling in the lower parts of the body
• Production of whitish, yellowish, or greenish mucus upon coughing
• Detection of frequent respiratory issues

What are the risk factors associated with the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?
The are several practices and conditions that can put an individual at the risk of developing the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Some of the associated risks include:

• Exposure to fumes – People exposed to the fumes of burning objects and living in poorly ventilated homes are at risk of developing the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Exposure to certain types of chemicals and dust – The long-term exposure to vapors, chemical fumes, and dust due to occupational conditions can lead to the higher risk of developing the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Age – Older individuals are at a higher risk of developing the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Typically, people over 40 years of age may be affected.
• Smoking cigarettes – People who smoke cigarettes over the course of many years are at the highest risk of developing the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The more the exposure to smoke, the higher the risk. Moreover, secondhand smokers too are posed with the risk of the disease.

What are the complications that accompany the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?
The prognosis of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can point toward several complications that can follow and they include:

• Lung infections – The disease triggers lung infections, such as pneumonia, and leads to difficulty in breathing. One must get regular vaccines in order to prevent the same.
• Heart conditions – The flow of decreased oxygen levels can lead to the arteries getting narrower. This puts excess pressure on the heart and makes it harder for it to function normally. Heart complications like the weakening of the organ, abnormal heartbeats, and heart failure are common.
• Osteoporosis – People with the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are a common prey to osteoporosis. This condition causes weakening of the bones. The bones can break more easily and must be protected through weight-bearing activities.
• Depression and anxiety – Patients diagnosed with the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are at a very higher high risk of suffering from depression and anxiety. However, the same can be managed through therapies, exercising and listening to soothing music.

How can the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease be prevented?
There are several known causes of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and this aids in offering a clear path to its prevention. Some of the most effective ways to prevent the condition include:

• Never smoking or quitting smoking cigarettes right away. For compulsive smokers, quitting smoking may not seem simple; however, it is extremely essential for prevention not only of the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease but other grave diseases as well.
• People who work in environments with exposure to excessive chemical fumes and dust, preventive measures must be mapped out to keep away from the toxins. Respiratory protective equipment must be used while working in such environments.