Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease ( Copd ) - 1166 Words

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is moving to the forefront of public health problems. It is projected to rank third in mortality rates by 2020.6 COPD is a lung disease that is treatable and preventative.6 The patient has toxic particles or gases that cause an enhanced chronic inflammatory response in the airways and lungs as well as progressive airflow limitation.5 Other causes for COPD include emphysema, chronic bronchitis, chronic asthma, and some forms of bronchiectasis.6 Occupation and exposure to external vapors, chemicals, irritants, and fumes cause ten to twenty percent of COPD cases in the United States.3 The onset tends to be ages 55-60 years old with COPD occurring in men more than women.5 The disease is a long term†¦show more content†¦Patients present with shortness of breath, cough, sputum production, airflow limitation, wheezing, chest tightness, dyspnea during exertion, fatigue, dizziness, elevated shoulders, overuse of accessory breathing