Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Tennessee

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a term given to any of a number of progressive lung diseases.  Two common diseases are emphysema and chronic bronchitis.  In simple terms, people with COPD have increasing breathing difficulty over time.  COPD can cause coughing that produces large amounts of mucus.  People may experience wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness or other symptoms.  COPD is most common in adults over age 40.

The main risk factor for COPD is smoking.  The best way to prevent COPD is to not start smoking or quit smoking.  For help quitting, call the Tennessee Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669). 

Another important risk factor for COPD is air quality.  People who are exposed to allergens, irritants or dangerous chemicals are at increased risk of develop breathing difficulties.