I don’t understand how a person still has COPD if they receive new lungs, I can’t find an explanation for this
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While replacing both lungs through a lung transplant can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), it may not necessarily cure the condition entirely. COPD is a progressive lung disease primarily caused by long-term exposure to irritants such as smoking or environmental pollutants.
When a person undergoes a lung transplant, the damaged lungs are replaced with healthy ones. However, even with new lungs, the underlying causes of COPD, such as inflammation and airway damage, may still persist. These issues can continue to affect the respiratory system, leading to potential complications. Additionally, the immune system may still be affected, as COPD can have systemic effects beyond just the lungs.
Furthermore, COPD is often associated with other health conditions like heart disease or lung infections, which may not be resolved by a lung transplant alone. These comorbidities can contribute to the overall management and progression of the disease.
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