Welcome, dear readers, to our weekly Health Diaries column, where we simplify complex medical topics and help you better understand the conditions that affect everyday life.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the leading causes of illness and death worldwide, yet many people remain unaware of its early warning signs.
COPD is a progressive lung disease that makes breathing increasingly difficult. It includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema or a combination of both. The disease develops gradually and many patients do not seek medical attention until the symptoms become severe.
The most common cause of COPD is long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases — particularly cigarette smoke. However, indoor air pollution such as charcoal or firewood smoke, dusty environments and occupational chemicals also play a major role especially in developing countries. A rare genetic condition known as Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can also predispose individuals to COPD.
Key symptoms include a chronic cough, excessive sputum production, shortness of breath (especially during physical activity) and frequent chest infections. As the condition progresses, patients may experience fatigue, weight loss and a reduced ability to carry out daily tasks. Because these symptoms appear slowly, many people mistake them for signs of ageing or simply a “smoker’s cough,” which often delays diagnosis.
Although COPD cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed. The first and most crucial step is to reduce or eliminate exposure to harmful smoke — most importantly by stopping smoking.
Medications such as bronchodilators and inhaled steroids help open the airways and reduce inflammation. Pulmonary rehabilitation — which combines exercise, breathing techniques and patient education — has been shown to significantly enhance quality of life. In advanced cases, oxygen therapy may be required.
Prevention remains far better than treatment. Avoiding smoking, ensuring proper ventilation when cooking and using protective masks in dusty or chemically contaminated environments are simple yet effective preventive measures. Early diagnosis through spirometry — a basic breathing test — can detect COPD before symptoms become disabling.
A persistent cough or breathlessness should never be ignored. With early intervention, lifestyle adjustments and appropriate medical care people living with COPD can lead longer, healthier and more comfortable lives.
