COPD is a progressive lung disease, which means it gets worse over time.
Having COPD makes it hard to breathe because less air flows in and out of the airways in your lungs. This happens when:
Airways become thick and inflamed.
Airways and air sacs lose their elastic quality.
Lung tissue is destroyed.
Too much mucus is made and blocks (obstructs) airways.
When you're getting less air, less oxygen gets into body tissues and it gets harder to get rid of the waste gas carbon dioxide. This results in shortness of breath during everyday activities. People with COPD can experience fatigue, chronic cough and frequent respiratory infections as well. People with COPD are also at risk for other health problems including heart attacks, strokes, and lung cancer.
Because it's hard to breathe, staying active with COPD can be difficult—especially as the disease progresses. Having COPD can limit things such as:
Ability to work
Normal physical exertion
Household chores
Social activities
Sleeping
Family activities
COPD doesn't just have a physical impact—living with chronic disease also can affect mental health. If you have COPD, it's not uncommon to feel fear, anxiety, depression or stress. Getting emotional support is just as important as protecting your lungs and staying active.