MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network
Health Information and Tools >  Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Print the content on this page Decrease the font size of content Increase the font size of content

Main Content

Top of the page

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. With COPD, the airways that lead to the lungs are narrowed, and the tiny air sacs in the lungs are damaged and lose their stretch. Over time, it may lead to severe shortness of breath and heart problems.

COPD can't be cured, but medicines and lifestyle changes may help reduce symptoms.

The best way to slow COPD is to stop smoking.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org.

© 1995-2023 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

© 2022 Government of Alberta.
About MyHealth.Alberta.ca | Contact Us
Terms & Conditions  |  Accessibility   |  Privacy
MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network
​