What Are the Signs of COPD?

COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It affects how you breathe and how your lungs work. Knowing the signs can help you get help early and feel better sooner.

COPD develops slowly. People often think they’re just getting older or out of shape. But early treatment makes a big difference. Let’s look at the most common symptoms.

1. Shortness of Breath

This is one of the most common symptoms of COPD. You might feel out of breath even with small tasks like:

• Walking across the room
• Getting dressed
• Going up one flight of stairs

People often say they “can’t catch their breath” or feel like they’re “out of air.”

When it gets worse:

• You might start avoiding activities
• You could feel tired more often
• Breathing may feel fast and shallow

2. Chronic Cough

A cough that won’t go away is another big sign. This cough usually lasts for months or even years.

Things to watch for:

• Coughing every day
• Coughing more in the morning
• A dry or wet cough

3. Coughing Up Mucus

Mucus is also called phlegm. People with COPD often cough up thick, sticky mucus.

It can be:

• Clear
• White
• Yellow
• Green

This is your body’s way of trying to clean the lungs. Too much mucus makes it harder to breathe.

4. Wheezing

Wheezing is a whistling sound when you breathe. It happens when the airways are tight or blocked.

You may hear it more:

• When you breathe out
• At night
• During cold weather

5. Tightness in the Chest

Your chest might feel tight or full, like something is pressing on it. Some people say it feels like wearing a tight shirt or belt.

This can make it harder to take deep breaths.

6. Feeling Tired All the Time

When your body doesn’t get enough oxygen, you feel tired. With COPD, even small tasks can wear you out.

You may feel:

• Weak
• Tired after sleeping
• Like you need more naps

7. Losing Weight Without Trying

In the later stages of COPD, your body works harder to breathe. That burns more energy. You may lose weight even if you’re eating well.

Tell your doctor if this happens.

8. Swollen Ankles, Feet, or Legs

Sometimes, COPD makes it hard for your heart to pump blood. This can cause fluid to build up in your legs or feet.

It may feel:

• Puffy
• Heavy
• Sore or tight

9. Frequent Colds or Infections

People with COPD are more likely to get colds, flu, and lung infections. These can make breathing even harder.

Talk to your doctor about getting flu and pneumonia shots.

What Is a Flare-Up?

A flare-up (or exacerbation) is when your symptoms suddenly get worse. You may:

• Cough more
• Feel much more short of breath
• Have a fever

Flare-ups can be serious and may require a hospital visit. If you have one, follow your action plan or call your doctor right away.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Talk to a doctor if:

• You feel short of breath often
• You have a cough that won’t go away
• You cough up mucus every day
• You wheeze or feel chest tightness

Getting diagnosed early can help slow down the disease.

Final Tips

• Pay attention to your breathing.
• Keep track of how often you cough.
• Write down symptoms that get worse.
• Talk to a doctor if something doesn’t feel right.

The sooner you know, the sooner you can start feeling better.

Sources:

• Johns Hopkins Medicine
• American Lung Association