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By Melissa Tennen, HealthAtoZ writer
It's not just the high risk of developing cancer or heart disease. Smoking can also cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a constellation of lung diseases that can kill.
Yes, kill. Have we got your attention?
More than half of all smokers don't know about the disease, according to the American Lung Association (ALA).
At least 10 million Americans have been diagnosed, yet 24 million may have it, the ALA says. COPD often begins after someone has been smoking for 10 years, although that person may not be aware he or she has the disease.
It's just a little cough, smokers may tell themselves. But that little cough is a giant red flag. Around age 40, the person may develop shortness of breath after exertion and dismiss it as a sign of aging.
More than half of smokers have at least one COPD symptom a week.
Here's the scariest statistic. A smoker is 10 times more likely to die of COPD than someone who doesn't smoke. However, 80 percent to 90 percent of those who die from COPD-related deaths are smokers, and seven out of 10 smokers develop COPD.
So, you have another good reason to put down that cigarette for good. The good news is that if you don't have it now, it's not too late to prevent COPD.
What is COPD?
COPD refers to diseases that block airflow. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis often make up COPD.
Emphysema means the lungs become less elastic and cannot fully contract and expand. Breathing becomes more difficult. Shortness of breath is the main symptom. Emphysema increases the chances for developing life-threatening lung infections.
Chronic bronchitis is an inflammation and scarring of the bronchial tube lining. More mucus and bacterial infections collect within the airways, impeding airflow. If you ignore chronic bronchitis, it can lead to emphysema. Even worse, you could develop pulmonary hypertension and heart failure.
Symptoms of COPD
Symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath during physical activities.
- Shortness of breath when resting.
- Chronic cough, especially in the morning.
- Cough productive of sputum.
What you can do
It's simple. Stop smoking. It's never too late to stop. You may be able to prevent the disease altogether or at least slow the progression. Certainly, if you stop smoking before you have any symptoms, you can stop the disease from developing.
The sooner you get treatment, the better your chances for successfully managing the disease. Many people put off seeing the doctor until their disease has become severe. COPD sufferers may require supplemental oxygen or machines. Eventually, the disease can lead to heart failure and death.
If you already have COPD, take steps to avoid infections. Get flu and pneumonia shots. Keep your hands clean to avoid getting sick. Also eat right and exercise regularly, particularly by performing cardiovascular workouts. These can help improve the lungs' ability to work.
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External Source
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The American Lung Association
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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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