AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

How does COPD primarily affect breathing?

1. Increases lung capacity

2. Causes airway resistance to decrease

3. Makes it difficult to breathe due to increased airway resistance

4. Improves respiratory efficiency

The correct answer is: Makes it difficult to breathe due to increased airway resistance

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) primarily affects breathing by making it difficult to breathe due to increased airway resistance. In COPD, the airways become narrowed, and inflammation occurs in the lungs, which leads to obstruction. This can make it challenging to exhale air fully, trapping it in the lungs, and reducing the amount of fresh air that enters with each breath. Consequently, individuals with COPD often experience shortness of breath, wheezing, and a feeling of tightness in the chest. This physiological change underscores the significant impact of COPD on respiratory function, highlighting how it compromises airflow and overall breathing efficacy. On the other hand, options related to increased lung capacity, decreased airway resistance, and improved respiratory efficiency do not accurately represent the effects of COPD. In fact, these aspects are typically compromised in individuals with this condition.