Nov 20, 2012 1 min read

In recognition of COPD Awareness Month, Healthy Lungs Pennsylvania, an organization that helps people achieve and maintain optimal lung health through education, awareness and direct services, is offering free cold-weather masks to Southwestern Pennsylvania residents through the end of the year.

Cold air causes the airways of people with certain lung diseases to tighten and restrict airflow. A cold-weather mask helps to warm the air before it reaches the lungs. COPD includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema or both, and is a progressive disease that causes irreversible lung damage.

The disease is generally caused by long-term exposure to airborne irritants, such as tobacco smoke, dust, chemical fumes and air pollution. Early diagnosis of COPD and proper disease management techniques are critical to helping patients breathe and live better.

To learn more, visit www.healthylungs.org.