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COPD &
Emphysema

Most people take breathing for granted. Severe COPD patients can’t...
Even taking a shower or doing the laundry can be a strain. Patients often have difficulty taking long walks, travelling, or feeling confident when they leave the house.

What is COPD?
Emphysema?

COPD stands for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease — a very common condition affecting the airways. It is caused by pollutants that get into the lungs, initially blocking (obstructing) the airways as well as causing chronic inflammation. The main cause is smoking. The urge to cough caused by persistent bronchial irritation is commonly referred to as smoker’s cough. Damage to the bronchi that has become irreversible is referred to by lung specialists as a permanent obstruction to the airways, i.e., COPD.

Emphysema is a form of COPD. In severe emphysema, parts of the lungs are damaged, causing air to collect in the lungs.
This causes the diseased parts of the lungs to become larger and puts pressure on the healthier parts of the lungs and the diaphragm. When this happens, it becomes difficult to breathe properly and with deep breaths. This persistent shortness of breath can therefore make it difficult to carry out everyday activities and enjoy many aspects of life without having to come up for air, take a break or seek help.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for pulmonary emphysema, but the Zephyr® Valve can help patients breathe easier, enjoy life more, and have a better quality of life despite having emphysema.¹

Disease Progression

Disease progression
Stage 1

Mild

You may have no symptoms, or you may get winded with moderate exercise or when walking upstairs. Your pulmonary function test indicates that your airflow is about 80% of normal.

Stage 2

Moderate

You may need to stop and catch your breath when walking on level ground. You may complain of coughing or wheezing, and breathlessness. Your pulmonary function test indicates that your airflow is about 50% to 79% of normal.

Stage 3

Severe

Your shortness of breath is limiting your life and daily activities, with worsening symptoms. Your pulmonary function test indicates that your airflow is about 30% to 50% of normal. You may need additional tests at this stage to see how your lungs are functioning.

Stage 4

Very Severe

Known as end-stage COPD, your oxygen levels are low due to lack of airflow. You will have difficulty catching your breath, even at rest. You may also have severe flare-ups causing frequent hospitalizations. These flare-ups may be life- threatening. Your pulmonary function test indicates that your airflow is less than 30% of normal.

“ ... because you take your breathing for granted and then suddenly you don’t anymore. I mean we all breathe don’t we and then I’m not. It has become an issue and my whole being is focused in on it.”

DEBORAH SANDERS, Patient with emphysema

Symptoms of Emphysema

Becoming short of breath easily when you do everyday things such as going for a walk or doing housework

Exacerbation (obvious worsening of the condition)

Coughing up sputum or phlegm

Persistent cough

Wheezing

Frequent airway infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia

Difficulty performing daily activities and enjoy many aspects of life without stopping for breath, taking a break, or asking for help.

You might get these symptoms all the time. Or they might appear or get worse when you have an infection, or when you breathe in smoke or fumes.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the progression of COPD. If you have one or more common symptoms of COPD, talk to your doctor.

Find useful resources

Take our self-test to get a better idea of whether you are at risk of severe emphysema.

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1. Criner. G et al. Am J Resp Crit Care Med. 2018 Nov l:1981-1151-1164