A nursing student is taking a pathophysiology examination. Which of the following factors would the student correctly identify as contributing to the underlying pathophysiology of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?Choose all that apply.
A. Mucus secretions that block airways
B. Inflamed airways that obstruct airflow
C. Decreased numbers of goblet cells
D. Dry airways that obstruct airflow
E. Overinflated alveoli that impair gas exchange

A. Mucus secretions that block airways

B. Inflamed airways that obstruct airflow

E. Overinflated alveoli that impair gas exchange

Explanation:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) causes problems in air-flow and breathing. It is indicated by shortness of breath, cough, mucus production and wheezing. COPD is caused by genetic factors, long term exposure to irritating gas and most commonly by smoking.

The long term exposure to tobacco results in blocked air ways and destruction of airways. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two most common causes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Chronic bronchitis;

A) It is the inflammation of airways that obstruct airflow.

B) It causes the production of mucus secretions that further blocks the airways.

E) Emphysema causes COPD by overinflated alveoli that impair gas exchange.