Lungnet

The condition ‘Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease’ (COPD) is often referred to as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. ‘Chronic’ means that the problem won’t go away but can usually be controlled.

COPD is mostly caused by smoking.

In COPD the airways have become narrow and damaged and it is harder to breathe.

Chronic bronchitis means the air passages are inflamed, which causes cough and excess phlegm. If you stop smoking, the phlegm usually dries up!

People with COPD tend to get worse with chest infections and during cold weather. Good treatment will help you get better quicker.

What can you do to keep well?

Ask your doctor to develop a COPD Action Plan for you. 

   COPD Action Plan 210.44 Kb

For further COPD enquiries email The Australian Lung Foundation at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or phone +61 7 3357 6388