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.