Healthdirect Free Australian health advice you can count on.

Medical problem? Call 1800 022 222. If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately

healthdirect Australia is a free service where you can talk to a nurse or doctor who can help you know what to do.

Search results for: "Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease"

Symptom checker

Our Symptom checker provides clinical advice on what to do next based on your symptoms.

COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella term for certain long-term lung conditions including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

Emphysema and COPD statistics

Emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have a significant impact on Australians. See some trusted statistics and learn more here.

Breathing problems

Breathing problems can come on slowly or quickly, and can be just annoying, or can be very serious.

Emphysema

Emphysema is a progressive lung disease usually caused by cigarette smoking. It causes shortness of breath and coughing.

Pneumothorax

Pneumothorax (known as collapsed lung) is a reasonably common condition that occurs when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall.

Pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension is a condition caused by changes to the arteries in your lungs that can damage your heart. Read more here about the causes, symptoms and treatment of pulmonary hypertension.

Management of chronic conditions

A chronic condition is an illness that lasts a long time - 6 months or more. Learn to manage a chronic condition, including types of support that are available.

Cough

Most coughs are caused by viruses which inflame the throat, windpipe or lungs. Here are some tips to relieve the symptoms.

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is a common, inherited genetic condition that can cause chronic lung and liver disease. Treatment can slow down the progress of the disease. Learn more here.