What Are the Symptoms of COPD?

8 answers | Last updated: Feb 01, 2012
Caring.com User - Leslie Kernisan, M.D.
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Leslie Kernisan is a senior medical editor at Caring.com and a clinical instructor in the University of California, San Francisco, Division of Geriatrics. She is...
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People with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) usually notice some of these symptoms:

See also:
What are the Stages of COPD?

See all 320 questions about COPD
  • Some shortness of breath during exertion (the first symptom)
  • A chronic cough for several months of the year, especially one that produces large amounts of mucus (also known as "smoker's cough")
  • Occasional wheezing or whistling breathing
  • Tightness in the chest
  • Shortness of breath even when at rest (in advanced cases)

The symptoms tend to start gradually, worsening as time passes. It may be years before everyday functioning is impaired.

It's important to realize, however, that these symptoms are also seen in many other diseases affecting the lungs or the heart. To know for sure whether someone has COPD (and not another condition such as asthma or a heart problem), it's necessary for a doctor to run lung function tests.


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An anonymous caregiver said...

ok was heplful

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mighty mouse said...

don't have an answer at this time. I will stand by and see what others have to say about this. But will take the time to pray for those looking for answers.

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dee dee4 said...

how do you know if you have degenerative joint disease possible cervical myositis

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dee dee4 said...

what does scoliotic deformity of upper spine

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CWD said...

This is new to me and looks very informitive. Thanks

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dandmloyd said...

Interrupted sleep, excess mucus accumulation, shortness of breath and only able to walk short distances. At times when I would bend over to tie my shoes I would be so short of breath that I had to sit still for several minutes in order to catch my breath. When I would get out of bed at night upon returning to bed I could not lay flat on my pillows, but had to sit up straight until I could get a full breath. Also, my appetite is not as good as it use to be and nothing tastes good like it use to. TDisME in Texas

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babick said...

I have had COPD and this answer is very true!!

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