Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is name for a collection of lung conditions caused by obstructions in the airway. Individuals who smoke are at the greatest risk for having COPD. The condition affects 12 million people in the United States, according to the Merck Manual of Medical Information. Breathing with COPD becomes difficult because the damage to the lungs causes some of the air to remain in the lungs after exhaling. Treatment may help decrease symptoms, but there is no cure for the disease. COPD symptoms increase and worsen as an individual ages.
Productive Cough
The most common symptom of COPD is a cough. Many individuals with COPD begin the day with a cough. The cough is persistent and produces clear colored sputum. During an active infection, the lungs will often produce yellowish green colored sputum. Irritation and inflammation to the lungs may also cause blood in the sputum.
Shortness of Breath
Feeling short of breath, even while resting, may occur with COPD. The shortness of breath increases with everyday activities such as getting dressed. Other times individuals with this condition begin new breathing patterns. Exhaling through pursed lips helps remove the excess air in the lungs. Other times, standing with the arms apart and resting the palms on a table helps the person breathe easier.
Weight Loss
Around one third of individuals diagnosed with COPD experience weight loss, according to Merck. The cause of the weight loss is from an inability to eat due to an extreme shortness of breath.
Wheezing
Wheezing while breathing may occur in people affected by COPD, states the Mayo Clinic. The wheezing may accompany the shortness of breath and tightness in the chest.
Barrel Chest
Because the condition causes excess air to trap in the lungs, the ribcage responds by expanding in size. This expansion of the ribs gives the person a barrel chest.
Cyanosis
Due to impaired oxygen exchange, a low level of oxygen may occur in the blood. The results of the low oxygen include a blue ting to the skin, especially the fingers, toes and lips.
