COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It is important for patients to recognize the symptoms early on in order to get proper treatment and manage the condition effectively. The main symptoms of COPD include:
Persistent Cough: Many COPD patients experience a chronic cough that produces mucus or phlegm. This cough may be mild initially but can worsen over time.
Shortness of Breath: As COPD progresses, simple activities like walking or light chores can leave patients feeling short of breath or winded. They may need to take frequent breaks to catch their breath.
Wheezing: COPD can cause wheezing or a whistling sound when exhaling. This is due to the narrowing and blockage of the airways.
Chest Tightness: Patients often complain of tightness or heaviness in the chest that gets worse with physical exertion. This is caused by the lungs being unable to expel air properly.
Frequent Respiratory Infections: COPD reduces the lungs’ ability to clear out mucus, bacteria and viruses, leading to recurrent respiratory infections like bronchitis or pneumonia.
It’s important to note that symptoms can vary from person to person and may worsen gradually over years. Some patients dismiss mild symptoms initially as just a smoker’s cough. Recognizing symptoms and getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial for initiating prompt treatment to prevent further lung damage and manage COPD effectively. Patients should consult a doctor immediately if they experience any of these symptoms.