Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Other names for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder

Chronic Airflow Limitation
Chronic Bronchitis and Emphysema
Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease
Chronic Respiratory Disease

Synopsis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) is a progressive, long-term lung disease that obstructs airflow and makes breathing increasingly difficult. It primarily includes two related conditions: chronic bronchitis, marked by long-term inflammation and mucus production in the airways, and emphysema, where the air sacs in the lungs are damaged, reducing oxygen exchange. Most people with COPD have features of both conditions.

COPD develops gradually and is most commonly caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, particularly tobacco smoke. The disease is characterized by chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and frequent respiratory infections. Over time, COPD can lead to significant disability, reduced quality of life, and complications like pulmonary hypertension or respiratory failure.

Types of COPD:

  • Chronic Bronchitis-Dominant: Persistent cough and mucus production for at least 3 months over 2 consecutive years.

  • Emphysema-Dominant: Destruction of alveoli leads to breathlessness with minimal coughing.

  • Mixed COPD: Combination of both features.

Common Causes:

  • Long-term cigarette smoking (primary cause)

  • Exposure to air pollutants (indoor or outdoor)

  • Occupational dust and chemical fumes

  • Genetic factors (e.g., alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency)

  • History of frequent childhood respiratory infections

Severity Factors:

  • Assessed through lung function tests (spirometry), symptom burden, and exacerbation frequency.

  • Progressive over time, especially if the underlying cause (e.g., smoking) continues.

  • Advanced stages may lead to oxygen dependency and complications such as heart strain or malnutrition.

When to See a Doctor:

  • Persistent cough, especially with mucus production

  • Shortness of breath during daily activities

  • Wheezing or chest tightness

  • Frequent respiratory infections

  • Fatigue or unintended weight loss

  • If using rescue inhalers more frequently

  • New or worsening symptoms (may signal a flare-up or exacerbation)

Natural remedies for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder

Smoking cessation: The most crucial step in slowing disease progression.

Pulmonary rehabilitation exercises: Improve lung capacity and stamina.

Breathing techniques: Pursed-lip and diaphragmatic breathing help improve oxygen efficiency.

Air purification: Use air filters and avoid exposure to smoke or pollutants.

Hydration: Keeps mucus thin and easier to expel.

Elevate sleeping position: Reduces nighttime breathing difficulties.

Nutrient-rich diet: Supports energy and immune function; focus on anti-inflammatory foods.

Additional Help

Talk with Dr. Shannyn

Struggling with chronic symptoms?
Many health concerns are complex—and what works for one person may not work for another. Talk with Dr. Shannyn, our licensed naturopathic doctor, to get personalized guidance on which herbs, nutrients, or lifestyle shifts could support your healing.

Schedule a Free Consult →
Personalized support. No pressure. No cost.

At-Home Lab Testing

Get to the root of what’s really going on.
Symptoms like fatigue, bloating, skin issues, or mood changes often point to deeper imbalances. Our at-home lab tests make it easy to investigate hormone health, gut function, food sensitivities, and more—no clinic visit required.

Explore Lab Testing →
Results interpreted with expert support. No clinic visit required.