Not Now. Established in 1989, the Clearwater Volunteer Fire Department serves the Clearwater (Tennessee) community and surrounding area with support. 1,185 people like this and 1,166 people follow this.
Pathologic changes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) occur in the large (central) airways, the small (peripheral) bronchioles, and the lung parenchyma. Most cases of COPD are the result of exposure to noxious stimuli, most often cigarette smoke.
Diseases of the Lungs. 1  Emphysema --destruction of alveoli reduces surface area for gas exchange. 2  Fibrotic lung disease --thickened alveolar membrane slows gas exchange, loss of lung compliance. 3  Pulmonary edema --fluid in interstitial space increases diffusion distance.