copd

[joanny]

is copd affected by alcohol

[joanny]

where do i find the answer

[National Jewish Health]

To the extent that alcohol can reduce mucus clearing from the airways and reduce the gag reflex, it is theoretically possible that alcohol intoxication could result in an increase in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations, independent of cigarette smoking, closely linked to alcohol abuse.  Or that alcohol has been shown to reduce anti-oxidants within the lung and thus may increase the susceptibility to injury.  Or that alcohol could contribute to non-adherence to ones medical regimen.

And, alcohol has been identified as an independent predictor of peripheral edema, commonly called leg swelling, and as a significant predictor of COPD mortality.

But a well conducted recent study failed to show any direct association between alcohol use or misuse and risk of exacerbations.

Conclusion is that alcoholism does not directly result in an increase in exacerbations or directly damage lung tissue, but at the same time it is a significant predictor of mortality for those with COPD.