Overview
Definition
A common, preventable and treatable disease that is characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation that is due to airway and/or alveolar abnormalities.
Epidemiology
Third leading cause of death worldwide. Highly correlated with smoking.
Etiology & Risk Factors
- Tobacco smoking
- Biomass fuel exposure
- Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
Clinical Symptoms
- Chronic progressive dyspnea
- Chronic cough
- Sputum production
- Wheezing
Clinical Approach
Diagnosis
- Spirometry showing post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC < 0.70
- Chest X-ray (hyperinflation, flattened diaphragm)
- ABG (in severe cases for hypercapnia)
Management
- Smoking cessation
- Bronchodilators (LABA/LAMA)
- Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) for exacerbations/frequent exacerbators
- Oxygen therapy (if resting PaO2 ≤ 55 mmHg)
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
Complications
- Acute exacerbations
- Cor pulmonale (Right heart failure)
- Pneumothorax
- Respiratory failure