Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a condition where airflow is persistently blocked on exhalation. Air becomes trapped in the lungs, which increases the effort required to breath. The disease is commonly associated with emphysema or bronchitis. The National Institutes of Health report smoking as the leading cause of COPD. Diagnoses is made using chest X-rays and lung function tests, often involving spirometry. According to the Merck Manual, patients in the end stages of COPD need high levels of medical care and assistance with activities of daily living, or ADLs. Death often results due to heart disorders, respiratory failure, lung cancer, pneumonia or blockage of the arteries.
Respiratory Distress
Respiratory flare-ups occur on a chronic basis and can be deadly, reports website YourLungHealth.org. Difficulty breathing, also known as dyspnea, happens even if a patient is sitting, at rest. Some people rely on oxygen therapy, breathing tubes and ventilators for assistance. These devices may be necessary until death, reports the Merck Manual. Chest tightness and wheezing are more severe during late stages of the disease.
Spirometry Levels
A spirometer is a device used to measure the amount of air inhaled and how fast it is blown out. Measurements are compared to a person without COPD. Spirometer measurements are commonly used to determine the stage of COPD. Forced expiratory volume in seconds, or FEV1, is less than 30 percent in severe cases of COPD, according to the PulmonologyChannel.com.
Swelling of Abdomen or Lower Extremities
According to PulmonologyChannel.com, severe or late stage COPD patients suffer from edema, or swelling, in the legs and feet. Swelling is due to an increase in pulmonary artery pressure as well as decreased efficiency of the heart's right ventricle output. Decreased blood supply to the kidneys and liver cause edema. The liver can swell, causing increased fluid and volume in the abdomen. Ascites, or excess fluid between the abdomen and abdominal organs, can result.
Additional Symptoms
A person with end stage COPD may have severe weakness and fatigue due to low oxygen levels. Skin can appear clammy or light blue in coloration. Nutritional deficiencies are common and weight loss often occurs. Chronic coughing and increased mucus production is present. Frequent respiratory infections are possible including chronic bronchitis, states the Mayo Clinic.
