COPD Lungs


Breathing is difficult when your airflow is obstructed or blocked


Lungs with COPD

This is what happens in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The airways are irritated and red, and make too much sticky mucus. The walls of the airways are swollen and partially block the air from passing through.1

Obstructed Airway
 
 

Alveoli (air sacs) with emphysema

Air becomes trapped in the lungs because alveoli do not deflate after you breathe out air. Inflammation can also cause bronchioles to collapse.2

Alveoli with Emphysema


  • Air that you cannot breathe out is trapped in the alveoli.2
  • Airways become swollen and fill with mucus, making breathing difficult.2

Bronchioles with chronic bronchitis

Air passages become swollen and narrowed, and the lining of each bronchiole makes excess mucus. This makes breathing difficult.2

Bronchioles with Chronic Bronchitis


Smoking is the primary cause of COPD.1