Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
COPD stands for chronic (meaning it will not go away) obstructive (meaning partly blocked) pulmonary (meaning lungs) disease. COPD means the tubes in your lungs that carry air in and out are partly blocked, making it harder for you to breathe. You may also have damage to your lungs.
Two kinds of COPD are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Some people may use these words for your disease.
Smoking is the most common cause of COPD, but there are other causes too:
- Breathing in dust or chemicals at work for many years
- Breathing polluted air for many years
- Breathing second-hand smoke from other people’s cigarettes
How do I know if I have COPD?
Talk to your GP if you have any of these problems:
- A cough that won’t go away
- Needing to clear mucus from your throat often
- Shortness of breath when you are active
- Shortness of breath every day, even when doing simple things
- Wheezing or whistling sound when you breathe
- Getting tired easily
- Having a chest cold often
How can Birmingham OwnHealth help me with my COPD?
With the support of your Care Manager, you can:
- Know when to call for help
- Learn about your COPD and set goals
- Take your COPD medications correctly
- Get the tests and services you need
- Take steps to control your COPD
- Make lifestyle changes to feel better
- Learn ways to solve problems
- Keep your appointments
Useful links
- Equip
NHS website with links to information-rich websites and a list of support groups and services related to lung disorders. The websites have been accredited by staff at NHS West Midlands and are aimed at the public. - Smokefree West Midlands
NHS stop smoking advice and support in Birmingham. - British Lung Foundation
Support, news and advice, including information in the Midlands area, and details of local Breathe Easy groups.
