Each November, the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) community comes together to promote better understanding of COPD — a progressive lung disease that affects millions across the country.
According to the American Lung Association, many people don’t recognize the symptoms of COPD until in its later stages.
“People sometimes think they are out of breath or tire more easily because they’re getting older,” said Pulmonologist Asad U. Khan, MD. “But symptoms such as shortness of breath can be an indicator of lung disease and possibly COPD.”
- Those experiencing these symptoms should see a doctor.
- Chronic cough
- Shortness of breath while doing everyday activities
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Blueness of the lips or fingernail beds
- Fatigue
- Producing a lot of mucus
- Wheezing
“People with a history of smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke or pollution, or have a family history of COPD are at risk for developing the disease,” said Director, Cardiopulmonary and Neurodiagnostic Services John Roselli, RRT. “Increasing awareness about COPD and its symptoms is important because early diagnosis and treatment can improve quality of life.”
Early detection and treatment may result in improving survival rate and outcome, said Dr. Khan.
If you or someone you love is experiencing COPD symptoms, contact a primary care physician by using our Physician Director at smc.health.