Poor Oral Health Speeds Up Irreversible Lung Disease: Study

New research reveals how oral bacteria can worsen COPD symptoms by triggering lung inflammation and changing the microbiome. 

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That persistent cough and wheezing is bad enough without gum disease making it worse. New research reveals why periodontitis, a common gum infection, accelerates the progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the irreversible and often deadly lung condition affecting almost 16 million Americans.

Scientists have discovered how bacteria from inflamed gums can travel to the lungs, exacerbating COPD symptoms. The findings from Sichuan University offer hope for new treatment possibilities for managing the breath-stealing disease.

Oral Bacteria Directly Trigger Flare-Ups in COPD Lungs

COPD, encompassing emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is the world’s sixth-leading cause of death.