Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Causes & Risks

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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Guide

Alison Beaver Guide

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Causes

The most common causes of chronic bronchitis include:

  • Cigarette smoking
  • Exposure to secondhand cigarette smoke
  • Air pollution, infections, and allergies worsen symptoms of bronchitis

Risk Factors

Cigarette smoking is the single greatest risk factor for developing chronic bronchitis. The more you smoke and the longer you smoke, the greater your risk is of developing chronic bronchitis. Frequent and long-term smoking also increases the risk that the chronic bronchitis will be severe.

The following factors may also increase your chance of developing chronic bronchitis:

  • Long-term exposure to chemicals, dust, and other substances that have been inhaled
  • Long-term cigar or marijuana smoking
  • Uncontrolled asthma
  • Long-term exposure to air pollution

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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