What Is COPD and Who Is at Risk?

Breathe in. Breathe out. Simple, right? For millions of Americans with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), even basic breathing can feel like a struggle. COPD, a term that covers conditions like emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is a progressive lung disease that causes restricted airflow, making daily life a challenge.

But COPD is more than just breathing trouble. By understanding the root causes, triggers, and who is most at risk, you can take steps to either prevent the disease or manage its progression.

Here, our Absolute Healthcare team explains what you need to know about COPD. 

The battle within the lungs 

COPD damages the lungs in two major ways. 

First, it destroys the walls between tiny air sacs in the lungs (a hallmark of emphysema), making it harder for oxygen to pass into the bloodstream. 

Second, it triggers long-term inflammation in the airways (linked to chronic bronchitis), resulting in excessive mucus production that blocks airflow. 

These lung changes don’t happen overnight. The damage accumulates over time, often due to exposure to harmful irritants (think cigarette smoke and workplace chemicals). 

Risk factors you might not expect 

While smoking is the leading cause of COPD, this disease doesn’t solely target smokers. Roughly one in four people with COPD have never touched a cigarette. Here’s why that matters:

Secondhand smoke

Secondhand smoke isn’t harmless. Long-term exposure can be just as damaging to your lungs.

Environmental pollutants

Environmental pollutants like smog, dust, or small airborne particles from wildfires also elevate your risk. Even indoor air pollution, like fumes from cooking with coal or wood, can contribute to the problem.

Genetics

Genetics plays a surprising role. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a relatively rare inherited condition, hinders your body’s ability to protect your lungs, making you more vulnerable to COPD. A simple blood test can determine if this applies to you.

Childhood infections

Childhood respiratory infections can cause underdeveloped lungs, creating structural weaknesses that increase risk later in life.

Age

Age is another critical factor. Most cases of COPD appear in adults over the age of 40, as lung function naturally declines with age, and cumulative exposure to irritants takes its toll. 

Surprising early signs of COPD 

COPD usually occurs gradually, with signs easy to dismiss as just “getting older” or “being out of shape.” Recognizing these symptoms early can alert you to the need for medical attention:

• A chronic cough that persists for weeks or months, often producing mucus
• Shortness of breath during normal activities (e.g., climbing stairs or grocery shopping)
• Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing
• Chest tightness that makes it feel like breathing is more of an effort
• Frequent respiratory infections like colds, flu, or pneumonia

If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, call us to schedule an evaluation. 

Prevention starts with protecting your lungs 

The best way to fight COPD is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Here’s how you can take proactive steps to lower your risk:

Quit smoking if you haven’t already. Studies show that up to 75% of COPD cases are smoking-related. The earlier you quit, the better your long-term lung health.

Avoid secondhand smoke and pollutants by minimizing time in high-smog environments or using a mask when needed.

Maintain vaccinations to protect against respiratory infections like flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19, which can exacerbate lung damage.

Request workplace safety measures. If you work around harmful chemicals, dust, or fumes, ensure your employer provides proper protective gear and training.

Exercise your lungs. Regular aerobic activity not only boosts lung capacity but can also strengthen the muscles you use to breathe.

With the right lifestyle choices, you may be able to avoid COPD. If you already have it, early treatments can control your symptoms and slow or stop the progression. 

If you’re concerned about shortness of breath or persistent coughing, call Absolute Healthcare in Spring Hill, Tampa, or Port Richey, Florida, today or schedule an appointment online.