7.12: Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases
Also referred to as chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), this category includes emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and other chronic lower respiratory diseases (except asthma). Although this is currently the 6th leading cause of death for Americans behind heart disease, stroke, cancer, COVID-19 and accidents, it still is a significant group of diseases that contributes to both disability and mortality. These diseases affect the lungs and bronchi; causing inflammation, reducing elasticity and oxygen exchange within the air sacs (alveoli), and creating more mucus and phlegm. This causes coughing, wheezing, and trouble breathing - limiting the amount of activity that the person can do. COPD is progressive, meaning it gets worse over time (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2023).