Explain the pathophysiology of COPD give clinical example of symptoms and pathophysiology associated with COPD.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) refers to a chronic, progressive respiratory condition that is often irreversible. It’s caused by persistent inflammation of the airways. COPD can be caused by smoking, occupational dust exposures, or air pollution. Pathophysiology is a combination of mucus production from the bronchioles and collagen deposition in their alveolar spaces. These alveoli are less functional for gas exchange. There’s also decreased elastic recoil in the lung tissue as a result of loss of muscle tone in the bronchi.

This can lead to coughing, chronic sputum production and dyspnea.

You may also experience chest tightness, pain when you exercise or do activity more frequently; and an increased inspiratory effort due to ventilation. Systemic hypoxia can cause widespread symptoms such as confusion, headaches and dizziness.