17th February 2025

Overview of COPD

COPD is an umbrella term used to encompass chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is a chronic, life-limiting condition, with causes including:

• Smoking – the most important cause
• Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency – should be considered in younger patients with no smoking history or a positive family history
• Occupational – secondary to exposure to cadmium, coal, cement or cotton

Prevalent features are productive cough, dyspnoea, reduced exercise tolerance, wheeze and recurrent ‘winter bronchitis’.