Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

A lung disease which causes severe shortness of breath, which can result from chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both. It is defined as a constant cough and excessive mucus production that lasts for at least three months for more than two consecutive years. Symptoms include ongoing cough, often with phlegm that may be hard to bring up; shortness of breath during exertion and eventually at rest; excessive mucus production and impaired inability to eliminate mucus; progressive difficulty exhaling; wheezing; recurrent respiratory infections; decreased exercise tolerance, including walking upstairs or carrying small packages. Diagnostic tests include chest X-Ray, CT scan and lung function tests. Not smoking is the key to preventing COPD or to stop it from getting worse. Treatment plans vary depending on the severity of the disease. Options include lifestyle changes like diet, exercise and breathing; medications; surgery such as lung transplant; nutrition and dietary supplements; herbs; acupuncture; and mind/body medicine.