Several diseases have similar symptoms and may occur with COPD.
A virus usually causes acute bronchitis. In most cases it does not require treatment. The cough it produces typically lasts for 7 - 10 days. In about half of patients, however, coughing can last for up to 3 weeks, and 25% of patients continue to cough for more than 1 month. Acute bronchitis may be a warning sign of future problems in some patients.
The classic symptoms of an asthma...
Read moreIn general, I think, people are aware that smoking is a major factor in lung disease, causing the overwhelming majority of chronic... Read more »
Asthma has traditionally been considered a disorder of the lungs. This makes sense since a tell-tale sign of this disease is difficulty... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
CausesCigarette smoke accounts for more than 80% of chronic obstructive lung disease cases in the U.S. It contains irritants that inflame the air... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a condition in which there is limited airflow in the lungs. The disease develops and worsens over... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Anticholinergic MedicationsAnticholinergic medications relax the bronchial muscles. They are generally inhaled and act as a bronchodilator over time.... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
About 24 million people in the U.S. have COPD, although only half of them -- 12 million people -- have been diagnosed with the disease. Approximately... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
The appropriate medications for COPD depend on its stage of severity, which is determined by the symptoms. The Global Initiative for Chronic... Read more »