COPD: Terms to Know
Addiction. A compulsive need to use a substance such as tobacco, drugs or alcohol that causes mental, physical or social harm to the user.
Chest X-ray. A picture of the heart, lungs and bones of the chest taken by X-ray. It is used to determine the location, size, shape and qualities of the heart, lungs and blood vessels.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A group of diseases -- including asthmatic bronchitis, chronic bronchitis and emphysema -- that obstruct (block) the flow of air out of the lungs.
Nicotine. A poisonous chemical that is the active ingredient in tobacco.
Pulmonary rehabilitation. A program for people with COPD to help them lead a fuller life and function as normally as possible. Most programs include exercise, education, emotional support, breathing exercise, nutritional counseling and may also include medical management.