COPD
What is COPD? Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a long-term lung condition that makes it hard to breathe out fully. It includes chronic bronchitis, in which the airways are inflamed and produce excess mucus, and emphysema, in which the small air sacs of the lungs are damaged. At Iswarya Hospital, OMR Chennai, our Pulmonology specialists diagnose and treat it.
The damage builds up slowly over years. Smoking is the leading cause, but long-term exposure to smoke from cooking with wood, dung or kerosene, and to dust, fumes and air pollution, can also cause COPD, including in people who have never smoked. It usually appears after the age of 40 with breathlessness on exertion, a daily cough with phlegm and frequent chest infections. The lung damage cannot be reversed, but stopping smoke exposure slows its progress. Inhalers, pulmonary rehabilitation and vaccinations help people breathe more easily, stay active and have fewer flare-ups.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Malavika P, Consultant Pulmonologist · Updated 9 October 2026
What are the symptoms of COPD?
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic cough
- Wheezing
- Frequent respiratory infections
What causes COPD?
- Cigarette or beedi smoking, including past smoking
- Indoor smoke from cooking with biomass fuels such as wood or dung
- Long-term exposure to workplace dust, chemicals and fumes
- Outdoor air pollution
- Past tuberculosis or severe childhood chest infections
- Rarely, an inherited condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
How is COPD diagnosed?
- Spirometry (lung function test) before and after an inhaler
- Chest X-ray to rule out other conditions
- CT scan of the chest in selected cases
- Pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas to check oxygen levels
When should you see a doctor for COPD?
For severe, sudden or rapidly worsening symptoms, do not wait for an appointment callback. Seek emergency care. For a routine concern, our care team can help you choose the appropriate specialist. This page cannot diagnose your symptoms.
How is COPD treated at Iswarya Hospital?
Expert diagnosis and treatment of respiratory conditions with 20+ years of experience from Dr. Rajkumar Kulasekaran.
Pulmonology specialists for COPD
Frequently asked questions about COPD
Is COPD the same as asthma?
No, though they share symptoms such as breathlessness and wheeze. Asthma often starts younger and the airway narrowing largely reverses with treatment, while COPD usually follows years of smoke exposure and the narrowing does not fully reverse. Spirometry helps tell them apart.
Can COPD be cured?
COPD cannot be cured, but it can be controlled. Stopping smoking, using inhalers correctly, staying active and pulmonary rehabilitation can improve breathing and daily life.
Which vaccines are advised for COPD?
Yearly flu vaccination and pneumococcal vaccination are generally recommended, because chest infections can trigger serious flare-ups. Ask your doctor which vaccines suit you.
When should I seek urgent care?
Go to an emergency department if breathlessness is much worse than usual and not relieved by your inhaler, if your lips or fingertips turn bluish, or if you become drowsy or confused.
Sources and further reading
Related guides
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
Plan your first visit
Not sure which specialist to see? Tell our care team the reason for your visit and we will help you choose.
- Bring previous prescriptions, relevant test reports or scan images, a medication list and photo ID.
- If you plan to use insurance, bring your policy details. OPD, tests and admission benefits depend on your individual plan and approval.
- Your first consultation determines which tests or treatments are needed; not everyone needs every test listed on this page.
Appointments are requests until confirmed. In a medical emergency, call 044 2025 2025 or go to the nearest emergency department.