Symptoms of COPD

  • COPD
    Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a condition commonly referred to as “smoker’s lung” as tobacco smoke is the most common cause of COPD. It is also known as Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COLD). The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates COPD to be at 4th place in the list of diseases causing death. It affects 9-10% of adults aged above 40.   
Submitted by Dr S. Patel on 19 November 2015

The most common symptoms of COPD are:

  • Sputum production
  • Shortness of breath. Patients often say, "My breathing requires effort", "I feel out of breath" or "I can't get enough air in”. Typically the shortness of breath is worse on exertion, of a prolonged duration, and worsens over time. Many people with more advanced COPD breathe through pursed lips and this action can improve shortness of breath in some.
  • Cough with mucus (known as a productive cough). A chronic cough is usually the first symptom to occur. The cough may last for more than three months a year for more than two years, in combination with sputum production. Cough may not be present or only occur occasionally and may not be productive. 
Changed
30/Nov/2020
Community
Respiratory and Pulmonary
Condition
COPD

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