Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): What to know
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of progressive lung diseases that can make it difficult to breathe. More than 15.3 million people in the United States suffer from COPD, according to the American Lung Association.
“The airways become narrowed and damaged, leading to shortness of breath,” said Michelle Peters, APRN-DNP, with the COPD Center at Utica Park Clinic.
COPD can cause a variety of symptoms, including shortness of breath, wheezing, a long-lasting cough that produces phlegm, increased fatigue and tightness in the chest.
