Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary DiseaseInfo Center

A Breath of Fresh Air for COPD Awareness
Inhale, exhale, inhale, exhale - most people don't even think about this constant action. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, are usually very aware of the crucial act of breathing, and this month, the general public is being urged to become more aware as well.
Yoga May Help COPD Patients Breathe Easier
Many people use the postures and breathing of yoga to exercise or unwind. The authors behind a new study explored whether yoga also might help those with lung problems breathe easier.
Environmental Concerns Lead to Inhaler Change
When health officials announce the phase out of a treatment option, it is often due to concerns about patients' health and safety. However, in the case of some soon to be phased-out inhalers, the concern is less about the health of patients and more about the health of the environment.
Lung Disease Affects More Than Lungs
Lung disease often leads to difficulty breathing, congested airways and inflammation of lung tissue. Recent research suggests it might affect other parts of the body as well.
Are New COPD Inhalers Safe?
For people with lung problems like COPD, taking a deep breath can be difficult without the help of an inhaler. But are those inhalers always safe?
When a Mask Helps Save a Life
Having a sleep disorder like sleep apnea can be compounded by another breathing difficulty, like COPD. But following doctors' treatment guidelines can make a difference.
With COPD, Beware of Tiny Brain Bleeds
Bleeding within the brain can be a sign of age-related mental decline to come. While this occurs more commonly among stroke victims, patients with COPD may be prone to this as well.
Testing New Meds to Open Airways
Two main traits of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are a restricted airway and limited airflow to the lungs. While COPD is not reversible, medications can help patients breathe better.
COPD Is More Than What the Surface Shows
An ongoing cough, lots of mucus, shortness of breath – these are all signs of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). But to properly diagnose COPD, patients must take a specific breathing test. Without this test, patients could be misdiagnosed.
Who Gets to Know They Have COPD?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects millions of Americans. Unfortunately, millions more don't know they have the disease. According to a new study, race and gender may influence who gets diagnosed.