It is not a hidden fact that smoking can cause various health complications, such as damaging the lungs, triggering inflammation, and leading to the development of various diseases. One of the most common complications of smoking is the development of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It describes a group of lung conditions that cause difficulties in breathing due to airflow restrictions. We spoke to our expert Dr Uday Kiran G, Consultant - Pulmonary Medicine, Respiratory Sciences, Manipal Hospitals, Vijayawada, who explained how smoking triggers COPD and management tips.
According to a 2008 study, COPD is a lung condition that is difficult to reverse and is a leading cause of illness and death globally. While there is no cure for COPD, the only proven method to lower its incidence is to quit smoking.
COPD differs from asthma, as asthma occurs in attacks, while COPD is progressive. It manifests in two primary forms: chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
- Chronic bronchitis is when the lining of the bronchial tubes (which carry air to and from the lungs' air sacs or alveoli) is inflamed. The main characteristics of chronic bronchitis are daily coughing and constant mucus (sputum) production.
- Emphysema destroys the alveoli at the end of the smallest air passages (bronchioles). This damage occurs due to constant exposure to cigarette smoke, other irritating gases, and particulate matter.
Symptoms of COPD
COPD is chronic and progressive as it worsens over time and age. The typical symptoms of COPD as listed by Dr Kiran include:
- Chronic coughing
- Wheezing
- Excessive phlegm and mucous production
- Shortness of breath
- Lack of energy or malaise
- Frequent respiratory infections due to lesser lung immunity
Causes of COPD
Here are factors that cause COPD as stated by Dr Kiran:
- Long-term exposure to tobacco smoke and smoking
- Air pollution
- Asthma
- Weak lungs
- Exposure to burning fuel fumes
- Genetics (alpha-1 deficiency)
- Occupational exposure to dust and chemicals
Smoking and COPD
“Multiple studies have firmly established a strong correlation between smoking and COPD. Individuals with a persistent smoking habit face an elevated risk of developing COPD. Moreover, for those already diagnosed with COPD, smoking can provoke and worsen symptoms,” said Dr Kiran.
When cigarettes burn, they create more than 7,000 chemicals, containing high concentrations of reactive oxidants. These components can induce inflammation in the lungs and airways which leads to damage, such as :
- Narrowing of air passages
- Swelling
- Decreased lung immunity (resulting in heightened vulnerability to infections)
- Hardening of the inner lung lining
- Destruction of air sacs
“Even after cessation of smoking, the persistent inflammation continues as local inflammation remains active. Moreover, smoking damages the small cilia hairs in the airways responsible for keeping the lungs clean. Also, cigarettes may contain chemicals that allow the lungs' airways to open up, increasing the absorption of harmful substances and toxins”, highlighted Dr Kiran.
Simple Ways To Manage COPD
- Despite the sustained inflammation, quitting the habit of smoking reduces the development and risks of COPD. The most effective preventive measure against COPD is to abstain from smoking altogether, and if you are a smoker, the optimal course of action is to quit.
- While quitting smoking is tough, seeking behavioural interventions and counselling services, using alternate sources of nicotine, and talking to your loved ones can help you be accountable and help manage the withdrawal symptoms.
- Another strategy is to steer clear of second-hand smoke emitted from burning tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, and the exhalation of smoke by smokers.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you are dealing with any health issues to get the necessary treatment.]