A generalized term that describes a group of non-reversible disorders in which there is a pathological narrowing of the airways limiting airflow to and from the lungs. Symptoms include shortness of breath or dyspnea, rapid breathing or tachypnea, a chronic productive cough, increased mucus production, hyperinflation of the lungs and wheezing. The most common forms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is abbreviated as COPD.