Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-term condition caused by irreversible damage to the lungs. According to the CDC, nearly 16 million US adults have been diagnosed with COPD with many more adults possibly undiagnosed. COPD is one of the top 10 causes of death in the United States.
The lungs are made up of a system of tubes and air sacs that push oxygen in and out of the lungs. It is important that air is allowed to flow through the lungs without obstruction so that the lungs can make oxygen available to your entire body and remove other gases such as carbon dioxide. Otherwise, obstructions can result in damage to the lungs.
Lung Damage and COPD
Lung damage can occur through long term exposure to irritating smoke, fumes, dust, or chemicals. This damage restricts airflow and causes blockages, or obstructions, in the lungs. Over time, complications can result from the airway damage and cause pulmonary diseases like COPD. Cigarette smoke is the main cause of COPD in the United States.
Conditions of COPD
COPD is made up of two main conditions called chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis is constant inflammation in the lining of the bronchioles tubes. This inflammation causes narrowing of the tubes making it difficult for air to pass through. As the walls of the bronchial tubes thicken and become narrow, extra mucus is produced by the irritation causing additional blockage. The second condition known as emphysema is damage to the small alveoli in the lungs. When these tiny air sacs are damaged, they can’t pass enough oxygen into the bloodstream and old air is trapped in the sacs keeping new air from entering. Most people suffering from COPD have a mixture of both chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
COPD Symptoms
COPD symptoms often include difficulty breathing, ongoing coughing, wheezing, feeling tired, and chest tightness. All of these symptoms can have a negative impact on quality of life. COPD can also cause complications such as respiratory infections, high blood pressure in the lung arteries, heart problems, anxiety and depression, and even lung cancer.
Unfortunately, the symptoms of COPD don’t often appear until there has been a lot of damage to the lungs. The symptoms usually worsen over time. People will often experience flare-ups, or exacerbations, where symptoms can be worse for a period of time, often lasting several days or weeks.
COPD Management and Treatment
While there is no cure for COPD, there are ways to improve your symptoms and reduce and treat exacerbations. Symptoms can be managed for a long time and possibly improved.
It’s important to see a doctor and make a plan with a healthcare team. Early diagnosis can improve quality of life and help keep you healthy for many years. Proper management of symptoms can also lower the risk of COPD complications.
Qualmedica Research is a clinical trial site in Bowling Green and Owensboro, Kentucky. We are conducting a study of an investigational medicine for adults 40+ years old with moderate to very severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
This study is currently enrolling at both locations. Qualified participants receive no cost study medications, no cost health exams, and compensation for time and travel.
For more information on this study, please contact our offices at:
Bowling Green office: 270-904-4334
Owensboro office: 270-685-4589
Or sign up for more information at https://qualmedicaresearch.com/copd-trial-2025/