COPD: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

"Are you often short of breath when doing things such as running errands or climbing stairs? Learn if you are at risk for having COPD.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, makes breathing difficult for the 16 million Americans who have been diagnosed with COPD. Millions more suffer from COPD, but have not been diagnosed and are not being treated. COPD can limit your ability to work or even perform simple daily tasks.

Could you have COPD?

The main cause of COPD is tobacco smoke, so if you smoke or used to smoke, you are at a higher risk of having COPD. Exposure to air pollution in the home or at work, family history, and respiratory infections like pneumonia also increase your risk.

Symptoms of COPD include:

• Frequent coughing or wheezing
• Excess phlegm or sputum
• Shortness of breath
• Trouble taking a deep breath

 

How is COPD diagnosed?

COPD is diagnosed using a simple breathing test called spirometry..."
COPD