Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is among the top three leading causes of death globally. Learn the key symptoms of COPD and how best to manage the condition.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is diagnosed in about 12.5 million people in the U.S. and is the third leading cause of death globally each year. The disease is also more prevalent in women than men. COPD is a chronic condition that causes debilitating symptoms that can significantly diminish one’s quality of life. Patients require prescription medications and other forms of management to limit complications that may arise as a result of the condition. Read on to learn the symptoms of COPD and how you can manage this condition without breaking the bank.

What is COPD?

COPD is the gradual blockage of the airways due to the thickening of the airway walls, inflammation, and the buildup of phlegm, which impairs the exchange of air in the airways and surrounding tissues and makes it difficult for the body to eliminate waste gasses such as carbon dioxide. The patient will begin experiencing shortness of breath over time as the disease progresses. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are also frequently referred to as COPD because most COPD patients usually present with symptoms of both conditions.

COPD occurs gradually as the airways and lung tissues become inflamed and narrow. Smoking tobacco has been associated with about 90% of COPD cases. However, some people may get COPD without ever having smoked a cigarette. Other causes of COPD include exposure to secondhand smoke and air pollution. A genetic disorder associated with a deficiency in Alpha-1 antitrypsin has also been linked with COPD. Other risk factors for COPD include working with poisonous dust and fumes and a history of chronic childhood respiratory infection.

What are some common COPD symptoms?

COPD can be managed adequately if it is diagnosed early. Unfortunately, most people are not aware of the tell-tale signs of COPD and therefore do not seek medical assistance as soon as they should. Being aware of the signs of COPD can save or prolong your life or the life of a loved one. Here are seven symptoms to be on the lookout for.

Chronic cough

A symptom is considered chronic when it lasts for over three months. COPD causes a build-up of phlegm in the airways, which is likely to trigger a cough. Unlike usual coughs, a chronic cough will last a long time or will keep recurring even after treatment. While a cough itself should not be a significant cause for alarm , a persistent, recurring cough should alert you of something more serious. This could be COPD.

Shortness of breath

If you’re constantly feeling short of breath, you should consider booking an appointment with your physician to rule out COPD. This is known as dyspnea and could indicate various underlying conditions.

Frequent respiratory infections

People with COPD are vulnerable to respiratory infections because their airways are inflamed. If you have been treated for a respiratory infection and it continues to recur, you should alert your healthcare provider. They will conduct tests to look for COPD and other potential causes.

Chronic fatigue

Persistent exhaustion is another indication of a potentially serious health issue and could be a symptom of COPD. Excessive, chronic fatigue is unusual and could be caused by a variety of factors. When this is accompanied by other symptoms of COPD, you should consult your doctor right away.

Cyanosis

Cyanosis refers to a bluish discoloration on the mucous membranes such as the inner lips and on the nail beds. This indicates poor blood oxygen circulation and often accompanies shortness of breath and fatigue.

Excessive phlegm production

Chronic, excessive production of phlegm is a symptom of COPD that should be immediately addressed by a physician, especially when experienced in conjunction with other COPD symptoms.

Wheezing

Wheezing is the rattling or high-pitched whistling that may be produced when one breathes. This happens when the airways are constricted, and the air struggles to get through. There are two possible explanations for this: the airways are inflamed, or they have been blocked. It’s advisable to rule out COPD if your breathing is accompanied by wheezing.

The symptoms of COPD could have many other causes as well, but if you are experiencing a number of them at one time, chances are good that you could be suffering from COPD.

What are the complications of COPD?

COPD is a chronic condition that develops gradually over time, and complications may arise if the patient fails to seek appropriate care. Most of the complications result from prolonged inflammation of the airways and the associated breathing challenges. Some of the common complications of COPD are:

• Chronic fatigue and insomnia
• Chronic respiratory infections such as recurring pneumonia
• High blood pressure
• Depression
• Heart attacks
• Lung cancer
• Death

When left untreated, COPD causes severe complications that may ultimately lead to death. Remember, COPD is one of the leading causes of death globally, so it’s essential to seek medical advice if you think you may be suffering from this disease.

How is COPD treated?

COPD is a chronic condition whose treatment is focused on symptom management. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for COPD that will work for every patient. Your physician will likely recommend a treatment plan based on your symptoms and how you respond to the treatment.

Treatment of COPD usually involves a variety of drugs, such as inhaled and oral steroids, bronchodilators, theophylline, antibiotics, and pain relievers, among others. Unfortunately, these medications can be quite costly in the long run.

Save up to 80% on prescription drugs for COPD

Managing COPD can be very expensive, especially if you have to pay out-of-pocket prescription costs. Therefore, it’s wise to make use of any discount that may come your way. And did you know you can save up to 80% on your prescription meds for COPD?

ModRN Health is committed to helping patients save money on their prescription drugs. We offer a free, easy-to-use platform that compares the prices of medications at your local pharmacies, helping you save up to 80% on your medications.

After signing up for free, you will also earn reward points by referring your friends and family. You can also set SMS and email reminders when it’s time to refill your prescriptions. Join the ModRN Health movement today and take control of your prescription drug costs!