COPD and Lung Disease Providers in Panama City, Panamá Province, Panama

COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is a long-term lung condition that makes breathing harder over time. The airways and air sacs in the lungs become damaged, so less air moves in and out. COPD is an umbrella term that often includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Other lung diseases, such as pulmonary fibrosis, also cause lasting breathing problems.

Common signs include shortness of breath, an ongoing cough, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing up mucus. Symptoms often build slowly and get worse with activity. The leading cause of COPD is long-term exposure to things that irritate the lungs. Cigarette smoke is the most common, but air pollution, dust, chemical fumes, and some genetic factors can also play a role.

Learn more about COPD and Lung Disease