COPD progresses slowly and worsens over time. Symptoms range from being barely noticeable to incapacitating. The rate of progression and severity of symptoms vary from one person to another.

Unfortunately, by the time the individual suffering from COPD seeks medical attention, much of the damage to the lungs is often already done.

COPD is referred to as the silent disease because symptoms generally progress slowly and almost imperceptibly. At first, you may notice that you experience shortness of breath only with exercise. You might find you have an annoying "morning cough" related to smoking. These symptoms may not seem serious at first, but they may progress to the point where activities of daily living, such as walking, dressing, and even eating, cause extreme shortness of breath.

COPD cannot be cured, but it can be controlled. The progression of COPD and the severity of symptoms can be controlled through:

• appropriate activity (Management)
• medication (Management)
• prevention of infection (Management)
• smoking cessation (Smoking Cessation)

Causes of COPD

Lung Anatomy