Breathe Easier: 10 Amazing Activities Proven to Improve COPD Symptoms

8. Causes

Tobacco smoke is the leading cause of COPD in developed countries. In developing countries, exposure to fumes from burning fuel for cooking or heat from poorly ventilated homes commonly cause COPD. Approximately twenty to thirty percent of chronic smokers may develop COPD. Even if a smoker is not diagnosed with COPD, they may eventually develop reduced lung function. Other smokers will develop less commonly known lung conditions or may be misdiagnosed. Genetics can also play a role in COPD even if a person has never been exposed to fumes or smoke.

7. How COPD Obstructs Airway Flow

Inhaled air travels down the trachea or windpipe and into the lungs through two large tubes known as the bronchi. Once inside the lungs, the bronchi divide air into smaller tubes called the bronchioles where air eventually ends up in the tiny clusters of air sacs known as the alveoli. These air sacs contain small blood vessels that pass oxygen through to the bloodstream. Also during this time, carbon dioxide is exhaled through the lungs. COPD causes lungs to over expand and lose their elasticity, leaving some air trapped in the lungs upon exhaling. This results in shortness of breath.