SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

At the beginning, COPD may not cause symptoms or they may be mild. As the disease worsens, the symptoms get worse. The common signs and symptoms of COPD are:

• persistent or coughing mucus; This cough is often referred to as a "smoker's cough."
• feeling short of breath, especially during physical activity
• wheezing or a whistle or squeak that occurs when you breathe
• chest pressure

If you have COPD, you may get colds or other respiratory infections, such as the flu or influenza often.

Not everyone who has the symptoms described above has COPD. Similarly, not all people who have COPD have these symptoms. Some of the symptoms of COPD resemble the symptoms of other diseases and health problems. The doctor can determine if you have COPD.

If the symptoms are mild, you may not notice them or adapt your lifestyle to make it easier for you to breathe. For example, you may decide to take the elevator instead of going up or down the stairs.

Over time the symptoms may become intense enough to go to the doctor. For example, you can run out of breath when you are making a physical effort.

The intensity of the symptoms will depend on the degree of lung damage you have. If you continue smoking, the damage will occur more quickly than if you quit smoking.

Severe COPD can cause other symptoms, such as swelling of the ankles, feet or legs, weight loss and decreased muscle capacity.

For some severe symptoms it may be necessary to receive treatment in a hospital. You or, if unable to do so, a family member or friend, should seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• It is hard for you to catch your breath or talk.
• The lips or nails turn purple or gray, which is a sign of low concentrations of oxygen in the blood.
• The people around you notice that you are not mentally alert.
• The heart beats very fast.
• The treatment recommended for when your symptoms get worse is not working.