The symptoms of COPD might remain unrecognized for years, which is why understanding the risk factors is vital. With early detection of the symptoms, it can lead to prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Common risk factors for COPD
Smoking
Smoking is a common contributing factor for COPD. The number of cigarettes used daily and length of time the individual has smoked might also play a role in a diagnosis of COPD. Aside from smoking cigarettes, cigar and pipe smoking, prolonged exposure to secondhand smoke and using marijuana increases the risk as well.
Cessation of smoking is the most effective action to take. Once this is done, it can help normalize the lung function decline linked with COPD. If an individual smoke but not yet diagnosed with the disease, cessation can prevent or delay the development of limited airflow which is one of the characteristics of COPD.
Surroundings
The environment where the individual lives and works is also a risk factor for COPD. Being exposed to indoor and outdoor pollution can help in deciding on a diagnosis. The individual should be aware of what he/she was exposed to while at work and at home. It is also important to use protective gear if in an unsafe workplace.
Childhood lung infections
Serious cases of bacterial and viral lung infections during early childhood have been associated with poor lung function and increased respiratory symptoms in adulthood which adds up to the development of COPD.
Genetics
The genes might play a role in the formation of COPD. This link is typically seen in a severe, hereditary deficiency of alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT) which is a protective protein produced by the liver. Individuals who are deficient to AAT face a higher risk for emphysema.
Asthma
Asthma is also a main risk factor for COPD, but further studies are required to establish this connection.