COPD Overview

COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a long-term lung disease that refers to both chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD symptoms include persistent cough with mucus and shortness of breath. There are four stages of COPD. Treatment includes medications and lifestyle changes.

Symptoms

When you have COPD:

• You have a cough that won't go away.
• You often cough up mucus.
• You are often short of breath, especially when you exercise.
• You may feel tightness in your chest.

Read more at http://www.webmd.com/lung/copd/default.htm