COPD Signs and Symptoms

Do you know what the COPD signs and symptoms are? There are so many medical ailments that we “must know about” today that it’s not funny. In addition, so many medical problems seem to have symptoms that are the same so correctly diagnosing the symptoms can sometimes be an issue.

The typical COPD signs and symptoms are a chronic cough, tightness in the chest, a shortness of breath and wheezing. These symptoms are very generalized and can occur for many other medical issues; however, these are symptoms that should not be ignored. If and when there is concern for a more thorough exam, there are tests that can be run to help the medical physician determine exactly what is ailing the patient.

What initiates COPD (by the way, this means Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and why does it drastically affect the sufferer? Over time, irritants negatively affect the lungs and cause the individual to have breathing difficulties. Irritants such as (but not limited to) smoke, air pollution and high levels of dust can all cause COPD of a period of time. Other causes are chronic asthmatic bronchitis and also emphysema; these two are actually two of the most common causes of COPD.

The COPD signs and symptoms can become so intense that it can cause breathing issues in which exhaling is a chore. Exhaling can be labor intensive at times due to the air ways being blocked. In regards to chronic asthmatic bronchitis, the blocked air passages cause coughing and wheezing. In addition, an increase of mucus occurs and adds to the blockage that is occurring.

With emphysema, the blockage is due to the collapse of the very tiny air sacs that are found within the lungs. When the air sacs are destroyed, the exchange of necessary oxygen for carbon dioxide is decreased which causes obvious breathing issues.

The best way to avoid COPD is to avoid situations which could possibly lead to this disease. We can’t always prevent every symptom but steps can be taken to greatly minimize the chances of being diagnosed with COPD. The biggest thing that one can do is to not smoke and if you do smoke to quit. If you currently smoke, find a program that you like to help you quit.

In regards to air pollutants, you can’t hold your breath forever. Like the air quality at work can even affect you and you have to breathe to do your job. Chemical fumes, high levels of dust and other particles can over time lead to COPD. Wearing a mask and/or other breathing apparatus can reduce the exposure to these particles than can harm your lungs.

To properly diagnosis the COPD signs and symptoms for those who have a history of breathing issues and smoke there are several tests that can be performed. These particular tests are done to verify the diagnosis so that the proper treatment(s) can be administered. Tests such as: 

• chest x-ray (checks for all possible lung issues)
• CT scan (multiple angles obtained/viewed during one test)
• arterial blood gas analysis (determines oxygen absorption levels in blood)
• sputum exam (analyzes mucus cells)
• pulmonary function tests (determining lung capacity inhaling and exhaling) 

Although this chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is common, it can be avoided if you are able to limit or refrain from being in circumstances in which the amount of air pollutants are very limited. Having a knowledge of the COPD signs and symptoms will help you seek medical help before the condition drastically affects your daily life.