Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a term used to describe various progressive respiratory conditions that cause chronic inflammation of the airways, block airflow, and make it hard to breathe. Two such conditions are chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD can lead to significant disability and reduce one’s quality of life. Identifying the signs and symptoms can help diagnose the problem early and seek treatment. This post discusses a few noteworthy symptoms of COPD.

Chronic cough
One of the earliest signs is a persistent cough lasting at least three months per year for two consecutive years. Note that this duration is based on symptoms reported by affected people. This cough is often productive, meaning it will constantly produce phlegm. Over time, the cough becomes more frequent and severe as the disease affects respiration and linked functions. COPD also leads to excessive production of mucus in the airways. This mucus can be thick and challenging to clear, contributing to coughing and further airway obstruction.

Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
Dyspnea or breathlessness is a characteristic symptom of COPD. Initially, breathlessness may occur only during physical exertion, but as the disease progresses, it can interfere with daily activities and even happen when a person is entirely at rest. Patients often describe it as feeling like they can’t get enough air.

Wheezing and tightness
Wheezing, a typical high-pitched whistling sound produced during breathing, is a common sign of airway obstruction in COPD. It occurs as the narrowed airways cause turbulence as air passes through while inhaling deeply. Many individuals with COPD also experience a sensation of tightness or heaviness in the chest. This discomfort can be more pronounced during exacerbations (flare-ups) of the disease. Note that these symptoms will vary in severity from patient to patient.

Frequent respiratory infections
COPD patients are more susceptible to respiratory infections like pneumonia and bronchitis due to impaired lung function and a weakened immune system. Frequent exacerbations are common and can be life-threatening. Further, patients are at risk of cyanosis, a bluish or grayish discoloration of the skin and lips. It occurs when there is a lack of oxygen in the blood. Cyanosis is a late sign of severe COPD and indicates the disease has reached a critical stage.

Barrel chest
In advanced stages of COPD, the chest may take on a “barrel” shape due to over-inflation of the lungs. It occurs because the damaged air sacs or alveoli can’t effectively expel air, causing the chest to expand and assume a rounded shape.

Depression and anxiety
Living with a chronic, debilitating condition like COPD can impact mental health significantly. Depression and anxiety are common among patients and should be addressed as part of their overall care. Further, the physical limitations arising from persistent symptoms and flare-ups trigger social anxiety, forcing patients to avoid being outdoors.

Limited exercise tolerance
As COPD progresses, patients may find it increasingly challenging to engage in physical activities. This happens because the disorder prevents the lungs from actively absorbing oxygen due to airway obstruction. As a result, there is insufficient oxygenated blood in circulation. This oxygen deprivation impacts essential organ functions, causing a person to tire out quickly, even with the slightest activity. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to further deconditioning and muscle weakness.

Fatigue
Chronic oxygen deprivation and the effort required to breathe with existing COPD can lead to extreme fatigue and reduced stamina. Simple tasks may become exhausting. Note that this fatigue should not be confused with the general tiredness one experiences after doing a lot of physical activity. If the slightest exertion causes fatigue, it indicates underlying cardiovascular and respiratory problems. The symptoms will vary depending on the person’s age and immunity.

Respiratory complications like COPD can trigger numerous mild to severe discomforts. Many factors determine the severity of these flare-ups, such as the person’s age and lifestyle choices. If the symptoms flare up at any stage, one should not delay a visit to the nearest pulmonary specialist. COPD carries the risk of long-term complications that may arise by simply ignoring symptoms. Many symptoms can be easily managed with changes in daily nutrition and lifestyle. Doctors can suggest a treatment plan after examining the patient.