Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Lung damage can make it difficult for you to breathe, causing breathlessness and a wet cough that doesn’t go away.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease which is usually caused by smoking. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are both forms of COPD.
While the damage from COPD is permanent, you can stop it getting worse.
- The best way to stop getting more lung damage is to quit smoking.
- There are medications you can take relieve your symptoms.
If you think you have COPD, talk to your GP or health practitioner. They can help you control it and prevent future damage.
Related websites
Asthma Foundation
The Asthma Foundation offers advice and support to people with COPD.
The Health Navigator NZ website helps you find reliable and trustworthy health information and self-help resources.
Better Health Channel
Consumer health information from the Victorian (Australia) State Government.
BestHealth
Consumer health information from the British Medical Association.
NHS Choices
Consumer health information from the UK National Health Service.
Quitline
Quitting smoking is hard work, but you don’t have to do it alone. Get information and support through the Quitline website – or call the free Quitline advice service on 0800 778 778.
Page last updated: 16 August 2012
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