What is a key feature of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is characterized primarily by chronic inflammation of the airways, which leads to progressive airflow limitation and persistent respiratory symptoms. This inflammation is usually caused by exposure to harmful particles or gases, most commonly from smoking or environmental pollutants.

The chronic nature of COPD means that it is not a condition that resolves quickly or easily; it typically results in long-term changes in lung architecture and function. Over time, this inflammation leads to structural changes in the airways, including narrowing, increased mucus production, and damage to lung tissue, which contribute to the hallmark symptoms of COPD: chronic cough, sputum production, and dyspnea.

In contrast, reversible airway obstruction is not a characteristic feature of COPD; it is more associated with asthma, where bronchoconstriction can be relieved with bronchodilators. Additionally, while COPD can lead to acute exacerbations, these are episodes that occur within the context of an underlying chronic condition, not a defining feature on their own. Finally, the onset of symptoms in COPD is generally gradual rather than sudden, further emphasizing the chronic aspect of the disease.