COPD symptoms typically include cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing. In some case, symptoms may suddenly become worse -- this will depend on how much of the lung has been destroyed. If you are a smoker, the lung destruction is faster than if you stop smoking. If COPD symptoms become severe -- such as a fast heartbeat or fingernails turning blue or gray -- immediate medical treatment is necessary.
COPD Symptoms: An Overview
Most people with
COPD are at least 40 years old or around middle-age when COPD symptoms begin. It is unusual, but possible, for people under 40 years of age to have symptoms of COPD.
Common COPD symptoms may include:
- Cough
- Sputum (mucus) production
- Shortness of breath, especially with exercise
- Wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe)
- Chest tightness.
A cough that doesn't go away and coughing up lots of mucus are common COPD symptoms. These often occur years before the flow of air in and out of the lungs is reduced. However, not everyone with cough and sputum production goes on to develop COPD, and not everyone with COPD has a cough.
The severity of the COPD symptoms depends on how much of the lung has been destroyed. If you continue to smoke, the lung destruction is faster than if you stop smoking.
People with COPD may find their symptoms suddenly getting worse. When this happens, you have a much harder time catching your breath. You may also have chest tightness, more coughing, a change in your sputum, and a fever.
It is important to call your doctor if you have any of these worsening COPD symptoms. Your doctor will look at things that might be causing these symptoms to suddenly worsen. Sometimes, the symptoms are caused by a lung infection. Your doctor may want you to take an antibiotic that helps fight off the infection. Your doctor may also recommend additional medications to help with your breathing, such as bronchodilators and glucocorticosteroids.
For certain severe COPD symptoms, your doctor may recommend that you spend time in the hospital. These symptoms include:
- You have a lot of difficulty catching your breath
- You have a hard time talking
- Your lips or fingernails turn blue or gray
- You are not mentally alert
- Your heartbeat is very fast.
Home treatment of worsening symptoms will most likely not help.
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