The symptoms and signs of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) include a heavy wheezing cough or a cough that brings forth large amounts of mucus (often called smoker's cough); shortness of breath, especially with sports and chest tightness. Some of the symptoms and signs of COPD are identical to the symptoms of other conditions and diseases, however a doctor will be able to confirm whether it is COPD.
If one has COPD, he or she may have the flu or influenza frequently. If symptoms of COPD are bad, there may be swelling in ankles, feet, or legs; a bluish color on the lips due to a low blood oxygen level, and breath shortness. One suffering from these symptoms should seek COPD treatment from a doctor immediately.
Symptoms and signs of COPD usually worsen gradually over time. At first, if the symptoms and signs of COPD are light, one may tend to barely notice them, or one may adjust their lifestyle to breathe easier. For example, taking the elevator to help increase breathing, which would save money on COPD Treatment.
Overtime, the symptoms and signs of COPD may become more severe and it is time to consult a doctor.For example, one may get shortness of breath just simply walking to the car. How severe one's symptoms and signs of COPD are depends on how much lung damage has been done. If one continues to smoke, the damage will occur more rapidly than if he or she stops smoking. With severe COPD, other symptoms of COPD may exist, such as weight loss. Some severe COPD symptoms may require COPD treatment in a hospital. If one is having a hard time catching his or her breath or talking, fingernails or lips are turning gray or blue, mentally struggling or showing signs of a irregular heartbeat, please consult a physician.
