Obstructive lung disease. Illustration of the right lung in obstructive lung disease. Obstructive lung disease describes a range of respiratory disorders characterized by airway obstruction. This is caused by narrowing of the airways, inflammation and mucus production. The obstruction to airflow makes breathing difficult, and wheezing and coughing are common symptoms. Obstructive lung diseases include asthma, bronchiectasis, bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).