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Signs & Symptoms

COPD patients usually have one or more of these symptoms:

  • a cough that lasts a long time (3+ months)
  • a cough with mucus
  • feeling short of breath while doing daily activities, such as climbing the stairs or carrying groceries, jogging, etc.
  • lung infections (colds and the flu) that may last longer than usual
  • wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe)
  • feeling tired
  • losing weight (without trying to)

Please note that feeling short of breath is not a normal sign of aging. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are short of breath when doing everyday activities like walking up the stairs.


If you have any questions or concerns about how to best manage your COPD, check out the links below or talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

 

Further Reading

The Lung AssociationLiving Well with COPDGlobal Initiative for COPD

References:
1. WHO COPD Key facts https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-(copd)
2. Neil Barnes et al; COPD and exacerbations: Patient insights. BMC Pulmonary Medicine 2013
3. Burudpakee et al; Pulm Ther 2017 DOI: 10.1007/s41030-017-0027-5
4. https://www.nationaljewish.org/conditions/copd-chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease/overiew/lifestyle-management/bring-up-mucus