Symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) indicate a persistent obstruction of the airways caused by underlying lung problems. The symptoms may not be apparent until significant lung damage has occurred, according to the Mayo Clinic. The symptoms usually get worse over time. The different lung diseases causing the difficulty may have varying symptoms.
Early Symptoms
A person with COPD may suffer from an ongoing cough or cough that produces increasing amounts of mucus, which often happens to smokers, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness may be other signs. The person may experience more colds or flu than usual. These symptoms may occur before the decline of lung function, the NHLBI says.
Emphysema Symptoms
Emphysema is a chronic disorder of lung function that causes breathing impairment. It is listed along with chronic bronchitis under the COPD category. It is marked by shortness of breath, especially after physical activity, wheezing and chest tightness. Emphysema can occur alone or with chronic bronchitis symptoms.
Chronic Bronchitis Symptoms
A person who has a cough for three months a year for two consecutive years is usually diagnosed with chronic bronchitis, the Mayo Clinic says. Smokers may develop chronic bronchitis, but may be able to clear up symptoms if they quit smoking. Those who do not quit may go on to develop emphysema. A chronic cough that produces yellowish mucus or having to clear the throat each morning indicates chronic bronchitis. Symptoms also include frequent respiratory infections and shortness of breath in the disorder's later stages.
Chronic Asthmatic Bronchitis Symptoms
Chronic bronchitis can combine with asthma to produce bronchitis symptoms along with the symptoms of asthma, which include episodes of wheezing along with cough, shortness of breath and respiratory problems.
Later Symptoms
Mild coughing that produces clear sputum usually develops in people with COPD by age 45, but the symptoms become more troubling as people reach age 65, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. This is especially true if the person continues to smoke. Lung infections such as pneumonia may occur more often. Shortness of breath may become more severe even during routine activities. In severe cases, accompanying symptoms may include swelling in the ankles, feet or legs. There may be signs of a bluish color on the lips because of low levels of oxygen in the blood. Hospitalization may be necessary to clear up the lungs. COPD patients are treated with medication, oxygen treatment or pulmonary rehabilitation.
