What is COPD?

COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is an umbrella term for two primary conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Both conditions make it harder to breathe air in and push air out. This means the body either has a hard time getting enough oxygen or too much carbon dioxide remains in the body. People who smoke are at the highest risk of developing COPD.

Understanding COPD lung diseases

Chronic bronchitis is a progressive lung disease that involves inflammation, increased mucus and thickening of the airways.¹

Emphysema causes the alveoli – the small air sacs in the lungs that provide oxygen to the bloodstream – to thin and become and less elastic.²

How is COPD treated?

There is no cure for COPD but there are treatment options and lifestyle changes that can help you remain active, breathe easier and slow the progress of the disease.

Finding the right treatment for your symptoms is crucial. Medication, exercise, oxygen therapy and ventilation can help. Talk to your doctor about your treatment options.

Resmed solutions for COPD

COPD affects your ability to breathe properly. Resmed offers devices to help address the problems caused by COPD.

Is your condition not allowing enough carbon dioxide to be exhaled from your body?
Treatment option: Non-invasive ventilation, or NIV, can help you reduce carbon dioxide levels if you have hypercapnia. This therapy involves delivering pressurized room air through a machine to your lungs via a mask or mouthpiece. NIV changes pressure levels to help you exhale excess carbon dioxide.

Learn more about our ventilation machines:

AirCurve 10 ST-A

Astral