How is Alpha-1 Different from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?
Have you ever noticed a sudden cough come on that doesn’t seem to want to go away? Or felt strong during exercise one day, then found yourself getting short of breath over the next few weeks? Maybe you notice it’s getting a little harder to breath as the years go on. Chronic cough, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing are all common symptoms of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While they may seem like similar conditions based on the symptoms and treatment, the causes are long-term effects are different. What is Alpha 1? Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD) is a genetic condition that impacts your lungs and liver and can lead to a serious lung or liver disease, and in some a skin disease. Commonly referred to as alpha -1, this rare disease affects nearly 100,000 people in the United States. Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) is a protein produced in the liver and is found in the lungs and bloodstream. It helps protect the lungs and other tissues from damage caused by illnesses, infections, and inflammation. AAT works in conjunction with an enzyme called elastase. This enzyme is made by specific tissue in the pancreas and is an important part of …
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