Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is the name for a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties.

It includes:

• emphysema - damage to the air sacs in the lungs
• chronic bronchitis - long-term inflammation of the airways.

COPD is a common condition that mainly affects middle-aged or older adults who smoke.  Many people do not realise they have it.

The breathing problems tend to get worse gradually over time and can limit your normal activities, although treatment can help keep the condition under control.

For more information on COPD please click here to visit the NHS Information website.