10 Myths and Facts About COPD - Article Health

What is COPD?
Everyone has heard of heart disease and cancer, and it’s well-known they’re the top causes of death in the U.S. But what about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD?

COPD is rare
The sad fact is COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. after heart disease, cancer, and stroke. It turns out your lungs are a precious resource —just like your heart—and need to be protected throughout your life.

COPD only strikes smokers
The main cause of COPD is smoking, as well as exposure to secondhand smoke. But not everyone with COPD is a current or former smoker.

Shortness of breath is the main symptom
People with COPD can also have coughing, wheezing, and a tight feeling in their chest, but shortness of breath is often the first sign. They may feel winded going up stairs or realize they need to catch their breath more than others.

COPD is incurable
COPD isn’t curable, but it is treatable. You can’t reverse the damage to lung tissue, but you can slow down the destruction and manage the disease.

COPD happens only to older people
People are often diagnosed with COPD in their 50s and 60s. However, these diagnoses are relatively late, when symptoms are so pronounced they can no longer be ignored, says Dr. Edelman.

Exercise is impossible if you have COPD
Shortness of breath can make exercise more difficult. But exercise is an important part of treating COPD.

It’s too late to quit smoking
It is never too late to quit smoking and potentially ward off COPD, says Dr. Make.


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