The symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be easily overlooked until they have progressed to an advanced stage. Fortunately, you can learn everything you need to know about warning signs of COPD with a search online right now.
This progressive lung disease often begins with almost undetectable signals, such as fatigue. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of the warning signs and seek medical attention if you have persistent symptoms.
It Might Not Be Allergies
Early COPD symptoms can be so mild that people confuse them with other common respiratory problems, such as allergies or the common cold. People may dismiss their symptoms as a minor inconvenience or a normal part of aging. Unfortunately, delaying medical attention could allow the disease to progress to a more severe stage.
Shortness of Breath
One of the most common symptoms of COPD is shortness of breath.1 A person may feel like they can’t catch their breath or that they’re not getting enough air. The shortness of breath can occur during physical activity, such as walking or climbing stairs. However, it can also occur at rest, especially as the disease progresses.
Wheezing
This high-pitched whistling sound that occurs when you breathe is also caused by inflammation in the lungs. Wheezing may be a symptom of asthma, but it’s also a common feature of COPD.
Weight Loss
While unintended weight loss is a less common warning sign of COPD, it is nonetheless an important one to notice.2 Since COPD can make it harder for a person to breathe, sufferers tend to increase their energy expenditure and burn more calories. This can lead to weight loss if they’re not taking in enough calories to compensate.
Fatigue
Fatigue or feeling overly tired can be a difficult symptom to manage because it can affect a person’s ability to perform everyday activities. The exact causes of fatigue in people with COPD are not fully understood, but several factors may contribute.
Don’t Ignore These Symptoms
If these symptoms are ignored and wind up being COPD, the disease can cause irreversible damage to the lungs. Chronic breathing problems, reduced physical activity, and increased risk of infections are among the most common complications.
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they persist for more than a few weeks or are accompanied by other symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider. Remember, the sooner you seek medical attention, the better your chances of managing COPD and maintaining good respiratory health.
