In chronic bronchitis, the bronchial tubes are continually inflamed, which leads to scarring. Inflamed and/or scarred bronchi allow less air to flow in and out of the lungs. Symptoms of chronic bronchitis include a cough that brings up mucus. Emphysema destroys the air sacs, or alveoli, where oxygen passes into the bloodstream from the lungs and carbon dioxide passes out. With air sacs destroyed, the lungs exchange less oxygen, causing shortness of breath. Emphysema is an extension of chronic bronchitis. People with COPD often have both chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Most people who have COPD are at least 40 years old when symptoms begin. Although uncommon, people younger than 40 can have COPD.

If you have COPD, here are tips from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute on how to keep the air in your home clean of airborne irritants:

• Don't allow anyone to smoke in your home.
• Keep fumes and strong smells out of your home.
• Don't stay in your home while it is sprayed for insects or painted.
• Keep a window open in the kitchen when you cook.
• Properly vent any fuel-burning appliance.

Also, frequent hand washing can help prevent colds and the flu, which can be especially dangerous for people with COPD.

A person with COPD is more likely to develop complications from colds and the flu. To help prevent respiratory infections, it's important to get a flu shot every year and a one-time pneumonia shot.

COPD can’t be cured. Treatment can decrease symptoms, slow the progress of the disease, improve physical activity, and prevent complications. Bronchodilator medications can be either short- or long-acting. They relax and open the bronchial tubes. Inhaled or taken orally, they are the main treatment for symptoms of COPD. Inhaled steroids work to reduce airway inflammation. A program of lung exercise, called pulmonary rehabilitation, can improve function. As the disease progresses, shortness of breath becomes worse. Eventually, the person may need supplemental oxygen and even mechanical help with breathing.

Large meals can cause bloating and restrict breathing. Small meals are easier to digest. People who have lost weight because of COPD should pay extra attention to nutrition and ask their doctors if they should take prescribed nutritional supplements.

COPD makes it difficult to do household chores and participate in social and family activities. It also interferes with sleep. Pacing is important, because your energy can vary from day to day. Save special tasks for days when you feel especially energetic. Ask for help around the house, and avoid heavy lifting, heavy pushing, raking, mowing, scrubbing and shoveling. Consider keeping a portable phone or cell phone with you at all times. This way, if your condition becomes critical, you can call for help no matter where you are.

Have your supplier explain all the technical aspects of your equipment’s operation. Because oxygen is a prescribed drug, your health care provider must answer questions about amount and usage. Keep all the oxygen and breathing equipment together and leave it there between treatments. A place near a bathroom or the kitchen is especially good so you can more easily clean and sterilize the equipment. The bedroom is critical, however, if you need treatments during the night.