Which term is used for a chronic, progressive lung disease characterized by obstructed airflow?

• A. CHF
• B. Confused residents
• C. COPD
• D. Contracture

Answer: (C)

COPD describes a chronic, progressive lung disease in which airflow is obstructed, especially during exhalation. It typically results from long-term irritation (most often smoking) and includes conditions like chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The key feature is that the airways are narrowed, making it hard to move air out of the lungs, which leads to shortness of breath, a chronic cough, and sputum production. This obstruction of airflow in the lungs is why COPD is the correct term. Congestive heart failure involves the heart not pumping effectively and can cause breathlessness from fluid buildup, not primarily from obstructed airways. The other options are not diseases of the lungs: “confused residents” isn’t a condition, and a contracture is a tightening of tissues around a joint, not a lung obstruction.