(Family Features) Breathing: You may take it for granted, but your lungs are important, and so is protecting them. No matter how old you are, you can take action to prevent certain lung conditions, like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s a serious lung disease that makes breathing difficult and gets worse over time. COPD is less common in younger adults, but anyone can have it. People with a genetic condition known as Alpha-1 may have symptoms as early as age 20.<\/p>\n
Consider these steps to lower your risk for COPD:<\/p>\n
Most people are 40 or older when symptoms start. If you have shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or fatigue, talk to your health care provider. Tell them about your smoking habits, any family history of COPD and exposure to lung irritants and ask if you should be tested for COPD.<\/p>\n
If you have COPD, the sooner you learn how to manage it, the sooner you can start to breathe better. Don\u2019t wait. Protect your lungs for life.<\/p>\n
To learn more, visit nhlbi.nih.gov\/BreatheBetter<\/a>.<\/p>\nWatch video to find out how!<\/h2>\n<\/p>\n