Symptoms

Early Diagnosis is Key

Although COPD has no cure, recognizing symptoms early and getting diagnosed will help you reduce its effects.

If you experience any of these symptoms, see your physician for screening and further treatment.

Chronic Cough: A cough that you've had for a month or more is one of the earliest warning signs of a problem with your respiratory system.
Chronic Mucus Production: Mucus is a defense against infections and irritants. Mucus production that lasts a month or longer may be a sign of lung disease.
Coughing up Blood: The blood could be coming from your lungs or somewhere else in your upper respiratory tract.
Frequent Respiratory Infections: Continual respiratory diseases, such as colds, the flu and pneumonia, may be the sign of a lung condition.
Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing when doing normal activities, such as getting out of a chair or walking across the room, may be a sign of a heart or lung condition.
Wheezing: Noisy breathing indicates something unusual is blocking your lung airways or making them too narrow.

See your physician if you experience any of these symptoms.