Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, is caused by chronic bronchitis or emphysema and can cause blood pressure levels in the lungs to rise. Because COPD is typically a result of cigarette smoking, it is something that, for the most part, can be prevented. Symptoms can vary, but the most common one is shortness of breath. Treatment for COPD varies with symptoms and the severity of the conditions.