Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, also known as COPD affects more than 11 million Americans. [1] What’s even worse is that the same number of people could already have COPD without even knowing it. Unfortunately, COPD is among the top causes of death in the US, so it’s important to understand the warning signs and treatment options. We’ve outlined both for you below.
COPD Basics
Simply put, people that suffer from COPD have obstructions in their respiratory system airways. The disease consists of a few different chronic disorders like emphysema, asthma, and bronchitis. The primary cause of COPD is smoking, but exposure to environmental pollutants or chemicals can also be a cause.
Luckily, COPD can be treated, but the disease tends to progress and turn fatal if untreated. What usually puts of diagnosis is the fact that COPD symptoms can be very similar to a typical chest cold.
Early Symptoms of COPD
There are more than half a dozen COPD warning signs according to Health US News. [2] On their own, they may not always seem significant, but it’s important that you consult your doctor despite that, and especially if you’re experiencing multiple ones.
1. Difficulty Sleeping
It’s normal for people to sleep better on some nights than others, but if you wake yourself up because of a cough or struggling for breath, you could be having early symptoms of COPD
2. Headaches When Waking Up
Morning headaches are another early warning sign of COPD because your lungs struggle to get enough oxygen during sleep.
3. Mucus Changes
A change in the production, color, frequency, or consistency in your mucus can be a cause for concern. Go to your doctor if there’s more mucus in your nose and throat than what’s usual, or if the color is yellow, green, or dark red.
4. Wheezing and Coughing Without Obvious Reason
Persistent coughing and wheezing if your not sick is a sign that something is wrong and that you need to talk to your physician to potentially take COPD tests.
5. Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath during the day and throughout typical physical activities despite not exerting yourself too much might mean that you have COPD.
6. Constant Fatigue
Feeling exhausted or tired all the time is a hallmark of COPD or at least sleep apnea. Don’t ignore this symptom.
7. Swelling Ankles
If your body doesn’t get enough oxygen, your blood vessels can make your heart work much harder and cause swelling in your ankles and extremities.
8. Losing Weight Without Explanation
Having issues with your lungs and breathing can cause a sharp decrease in appetite and subsequent weight loss.
I Was Diagnosed with COPD – What Do I Do Now?
Although getting diagnosed with COPD can be a serious wake-up call, it doesn’t mean that your quality of life has to suffer. Armed with the right motivation and medication, you can successfully manage COPD. It’s important that you discuss treatment options with your doctor and consider things like medication, rehab, surgery, and oxygen treatments.
If you’ve recognized yourself while reading the symptoms of COPD listed above, book an appointment with a doctor now. Don’t forget, COPD is a disease that gets worse over time if you don’t treat it.
[2] https://www.everydayhealth.com/pictures/9-copd-warning-signs-you-could-ignoring/