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Health Information and Tools >  Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. With COPD, the airways that lead to the lungs are narrowed, and the tiny air sacs in the lungs are damaged and lose their stretch. Over time, it may lead to severe shortness of breath and heart problems.

COPD can't be cured, but medicines and lifestyle changes may help reduce symptoms.

The best way to slow COPD is to stop smoking.

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Current as of: August 6, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff

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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.