Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a condition that makes daily life hard. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is known for causing difficulty breathing because of damage to lung tissue. Damage causes airways to become inflamed, narrowed, or blocked. It will become more difficult for the lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide over time.

What Are the Risk Factors and Symptoms?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease develops slowly and is affected by long term risk factors:

  • Tobacco use, especially cigarette smoking.
  • Exposure to substances and pollutants that irritate the lungs.
  • Asthma
  • Family history

Symptoms can appear as:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pressure
  • Chronic cough
  • Mucus with cough
  • Wheezing

Symptoms vary with each person. Diagnosis is based on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease testing and is a benefit covered by TRICARE.

Disease Prevention, Management, and Treatment

Take steps to prevent, manage, or treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease:

  • If you smoke, plan to quit smoking.
  • Stay away from lung irritants such as air pollution, chemical fumes, and secondhand smoke.
  • Have a balanced and nutritious meal plan.
  • Keep vaccines updated. Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are at higher risk of developing complications due to respiratory viruses.

It is possible to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Remember, the goal of management is to have treatment that improves symptoms and prevents complications.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treatment may include:

Additional Resources:

Last Updated 2/27/2025