COPD: causes, risk factors and symptoms
Disclaimer: The following information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment.
For patients facing COPD, it can be important to understand what might have caused it and what factors could impact it. This knowledge helps you make informed decisions about treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Being aware of these details enables you to take charge of your health and navigate your cancer journey with confidence.
COPD develops gradually, requiring various mutations or changes in specific genes before becoming apparent. These genetic mutations can occur spontaneously, be inherited, or be triggered by exposure to harmful substances. Prolonged inhalation of harmful substances leads to alterations in the genetic material of lung cells. This disruption of cell division can result in genetic abnormalities, eventually leading to the formation of malignant cancer cells. During their evolution, malignant cells can also migrate to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream, giving rise to COPD metastases.
In many cases, COPD is a consequence of smoking. However, the disease can also affect non-smokers. Passive smoking and exposure to radon, air pollution, and other harmful substances such as asbestos can also cause COPD.
In the early stages of the disease, there are few or no symptoms. Typically, there may be fatigue or coughing. The most common symptoms of COPD include:
- Chronic, persistent, irritating cough lasting more than 9 weeks
- Blood in the sputum (coughed-up mucus) or when coughing
- Long-lasting lung infections, even after antibiotic treatment
- Excessive mucus production
- Shortness of breath
- Hoarse voice without throat pain
- Chest pain
- Swelling of the face or neck (due to compression of certain blood vessels by the tumor)
- Poor physical condition
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
Although these symptoms are common, they are not specific and may have other causes. Therefore, they do not necessarily indicate COPD. Nevertheless, it is advisable to consult your doctor if one or more symptoms do not disappear after a short period, especially if you have been smoking for a long period.
More information can be found on: cancer.gov/types/lung
