Common Signs and Symptoms of COPD


Typical signs of COPD are shortness of breath, coughing and sputum production. Male smokers over the age of 60 are most affected by COPD. However, the proportion of women is rising significantly.

Common symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath in everyday activities
  • Wheezing
  • Chest tightness
  • Constant coughing
  • Producing a lot of mucus
  • Feeling tired
  • Frequent colds or flu

Actions that slow disease progression

Smoking cessation, a healthy diet, and exercise can all help slow disease progression. A central component of the treatment for COPD are inhaled medications that are delivered directly to the lungs. A nebulizer is commonly used in treating COPD.

The Causes of COPD

The main reason chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) develops is smoking. The risk of getting COPD depends on smoking duration and how much a person smokes.

Non-smokers have a lower risk of developing COPD, but other harmful substances or a family predisposition can contribute to someone developing COPD.

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