What Causes COPD?
Most cases of COPD develop after long-term exposure
to lung irritants that damage the lungs and the airways.
In the United States, the most common irritant that
causes COPD is cigarette smoke. Pipe, cigar, and other types of tobacco smoke
also can cause COPD, especially if the smoke is inhaled. Secondhand
smokethat is, smoke in the air from other people smokingalso can
irritate the lungs and contribute to COPD.
Breathing in air pollution and chemical fumes or
dust from the environment or workplace also can contribute to COPD.
In rare cases, a genetic condition called
alpha-1
antitrypsin deficiency may play a role in causing COPD. People who have
this condition have low levels of alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT)a protein made
in the liver.
Having a low level of the AAT protein can lead to
lung damage and COPD if you're exposed to smoke or other lung irritants. If you
have this condition and smoke, COPD can worsen very quickly. |