COPD – Common Triggers

 COPD – Learn about the Common Triggers (risk factors) Causing the Disease

COPD is a common respiratory problem. For some reasons, infliction of this respiratory disease has become common these days. In general, women are found more vulnerable than men. This disease can show no symptoms at times, but it can also become evident shortly after it starts. Detecting it early is achievable when you understand the risk factors and related causes of this health issue.

Causes of COPD – the major risk factors

COPD is medically termed as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. COPD is often linked to lifestyle choices. Unhealthy habits and environmental factors can raise the risk of developing COPD.

• Heavy tobacco smokers face a high risk of developing COPD.
• People exposed to passive smoking may develop COPD due to its adverse effects.
• Frequent exposure to coal and wood smoke may also cause COPD.
• Individuals with a chronic hypersensitivity of the respiratory tract are also susceptible.

Avoiding these unhygienic conditions and eliminating risk factors or triggers is crucial in reducing COPD risk.

Other than these lifestyle factors, people with deficiency of alpha-1 antitrypsin are found vulnerable to this respiratory disease.  Due to this deficiency, the elasticity of lung tissues is badly affected and contributes to COPD.

Causes of COPD – Other allied health reasons

Several other health conditions can increase the risk for COPD, based on clinical research:

• Untreated, prolonged infectious lung diseases can induce COPD symptoms.
• Emphysema, a condition where the air sacs in the lungs become abnormally enlarged and can lead to breathing difficulties, is linked to COPD.
• Chronic bronchitis, often characterized by a persistent cough for over two consecutive years, can result in COPD diagnosis.
• A deficiency of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) protein, responsible for maintaining lung tissue elasticity, can make individuals more susceptible to COPD when exposed to lung irritants or smoke.

These are the common causes of COPD, and efforts to eliminate these factors and promote a healthy lifestyle can aid in preventing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Natural treatments like salt therapy can also contribute to better respiratory hygiene and improved breathing.