How COPD Affects my Lungs

COPD affects several different parts of the respiratory system and results in changes in the airways and the lungs at the same time:

• The airways thicken and loose their elasticity, which means they cannot widen when more air is required in the lungs. Because of this breathing can be more difficult, particularly when you exercise.
• The airways also produce excessive mucus. The body can have difficulty clearing this mucus. You may cough more than other people, and cough up more mucus.
• Because of these changes, the lungs are more likely to become infected with bacteria or viruses. You will be more vulnerable to the effects of infections, which may last longer and be more serious than for other people
• As the lungs do not work properly, the oxygen content of the blood may be reduced. You may become extremely fatigued and easily exhausted when doing any physical activity. In addition to becoming breathless, you may find that you are unusually tired or sleepy.
• COPD can also destroy the tiny air sacks where oxygen dissolves into the blood, so breathing becomes more difficult. This is responsible for you getting out of breath easily.