What is COPD? How to Recognize Its Symptoms?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic respiratory condition that causes narrowing of the airways and irreversible reduction in lung function. Although COPD is commonly seen in individuals who smoke, occupational and environmental factors also play a significant role in its development. This disease is generally progressive and leads to a gradual decrease in respiratory capacity over time.

COPD is an umbrella term that includes two main conditions:

1. Chronic Bronchitis: Causes inflammation of the airways and excessive mucus production, leading to persistent coughing and shortness of breath.
2. Emphysema: Characterized by damage to the air sacs (alveoli) in the lungs, making oxygen exchange difficult. It results in the loss of lung elasticity and causes breathing difficulties.

If COPD is not detected in its early stages, it can progress and lead to severe respiratory failure, making daily activities challenging. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, symptoms can be managed, and the progression of the disease can be slowed.

The most common causes of COPD are:

1. Smoking: Smoking is the most significant cause of COPD. Cigarette smoke damages lung tissue, leading to airway narrowing and inflammation. Long-term smoking significantly increases the risk of developing COPD.
2. Air Pollution and Exposure to Harmful Gases: Industrial gases, chemical fumes, and dust increase the risk of COPD. It is more commonly seen in occupational groups such as factory workers, miners, and agricultural workers.
3. Genetic Factors: Genetic factors, such as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, can predispose individuals to COPD. This protein deficiency makes it harder to protect lung tissue, leading to earlier onset of the disease.
4. Respiratory Infections: Frequent respiratory infections can negatively affect lung function and accelerate the development of COPD.

COPD is generally a slowly progressing disease, and its symptoms worsen over time. The most common symptoms are:

• Persistent and chronic cough

• Phlegm production (especially increasing in the morning)

• Shortness of breath (especially during physical activity)

• Feeling of chest tightness

• Wheezing

• Fatigue and weakness

• In advanced stages, weight loss and muscle weakness

These symptoms may be mild at first and can be perceived by patients as a natural result of aging or smoking. However, over time, shortness of breath becomes more noticeable and makes daily activities difficult.

To diagnose COPD, doctors generally perform the following tests:

• Spirometry: A lung function test used to measure how well the lungs work. It is one of the most important tests for diagnosing COPD.

• Chest X-ray or CT Scan: Used to observe structural changes in the lungs. It is especially helpful in determining the presence of emphysema.

• Blood Gas Analysis: Measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood to help assess the severity of the disease.

Although COPD cannot be completely cured, symptoms can be controlled and the patient’s quality of life can be improved with appropriate treatments.

1. Medication Therapy:
   • Bronchodilators: Widen the airways to make breathing easier.
   • Corticosteroids: Help reduce inflammation in the lungs.
   • Antibiotics: Used in cases of infection.
2. Oxygen Therapy:
   • Oxygen support is provided to increase oxygen levels in the blood.
3. Lifestyle Changes:
   • Quitting Smoking: The most important step to slow the progression of COPD.
   • Regular Exercise: Strengthens respiratory muscles, allowing the patient to breathe more comfortably.
   • Nutrition: Adequate nutrition strengthens the immune system and can prevent worsening of the disease.
4. Surgical Methods:
   • Lung Volume Reduction Surgery: In severe cases, damaged lung tissue is removed.
   • Lung Transplant: Used as a last resort in patients with advanced COPD.

• Do not smoke or quit smoking
• Avoid air pollution and harmful chemicals
• Get vaccinated against respiratory infections (flu and pneumonia vaccines)
• Have regular health check-ups

COPD is a disease that can be controlled with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment but cannot be completely cured. Especially quitting smoking, avoiding air pollution, and engaging in regular exercise can slow the progression of the disease. If you have symptoms of COPD, consulting a doctor without delay is crucial for improving your quality of life.