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URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/imagepages/19376.htm
COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
Overview
(COPD) refers to chronic lung diseases that result in blocked air flow in the lungs. The two main COPD diseases are emphysema and chronic bronchitis, the most common causes of respiratory failure. Emphysema occurs when the walls between the lung's air sacs become weakened and collapse. Damage from COPD is usually permanent and irreversible.
Review Date 10/21/2025
Updated by: Laura J. Martin, MD, MPH, ABIM Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Hospice and Palliative Medicine, Atlanta, GA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
