Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a lung disease that is characterized by a persistent reduction of airflow. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases including: Emphysema – a condition which damages the air sacs of lungs and reduce the elasticity of the lungs. This results in decreased lung efficiency. Chronic bronchitis – a condition in which the lining of airways become inflamed and increases the mucus production. Persistent bronchitis becomes chronic and does not respond to treatment. About 6.4% people in the United States are diagnosed with COPD. It is a life threatening disease and it is under diagnosed due which it is increasing day by day. Causes The biggest cause of COPD in most developed countries like United States is cigarette smoking. It has been observed that about 90% of COPD patients are smokers or former smokers. Risk Factors Other than smoking there are some other risk factors that can cause COPD, these include: Indoor air pollution such as solid fuel used for cooking and heating Outdoor air pollution Occupational dusts and chemicals (such as vapors, irritants, and fumes) Family history of COPD Genetic factors The frequent attacks of respiratory infection in childhood are also a cause of COPD. Symptoms The most common symptoms of the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disorder are: Chronic cough, Breathlessness, Sputum...