Which statement best describes COPD?

Which statement best describes COPD?

• A. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation
• B. Acute reversible airway obstruction
• C. A restrictive lung disease
• D. A disease solely in elderly with no symptoms

Answer: (D)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a chronic, progressive obstructive lung condition defined by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation that is not fully reversible. The ongoing symptoms—such as a chronic cough, sputum production, and shortness of breath—reflect durable changes in the airways and lung tissue from long-term exposure to noxious particles or gases, most commonly cigarette smoke. The airflow limitation is only partially reversible with bronchodilators and tends to worsen over time, which distinguishes COPD from acute reversible airway obstruction. It is not a restrictive lung disease, which primarily reduces lung volumes rather than expiratory airflow, and it does not have to appear only in the elderly or with no symptoms, since many affected individuals are middle-aged or older with a history of exposure.