Why That Lingering Cough Might Be A Sign Of COPD You Cannot Ignore

COPD is an abbreviation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and sadly it is a fairly common disease. Estimates indicate that COPD is the 4th leading cause of deaths in the US today, and that at any one time as many as 12 million Americans are suffering from COPD.

What are the symptoms of COPD?

To understand the symptoms of COPD it’s probably easiest to start with the cause. The most common cause is smoking (although it’s definitely not the only cause). So you won’t be surprised to hear that the most common symptom of this disease is a long term cough. By a long term cough, the experts mean a cough that lasts for 3 weeks or more, or a cough that is totally unexplained. COPD affects both sexes equally.

What happens to your body when you have COPD?

COPD normally manifests itself in the shape of emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Those suffering with severe COPD may have both. When you have COPD, regardless of the cause, less air is getting in and out of your lungs than should be. That means the body simply doesn’t get enough oxygen. Sufferers are often breathless and easily tired. There are different levels of the disease, and very often these are affected by the overall health of the patient and whether there are other underlying health issues.

One of the downsides of this condition is that it can lead sufferers to avoid physical exertion, but as always physical fitness is important and will help you battle the symptoms of COPD.

What is the life expectancy of COPD sufferers?

These days COPD can be managed very well with medication, regular exercise and breathing techniques (called paced exercises). As we have said your underlying health with also be a factor, but on its own you can live a fulfilling life with COPD. If you have a cough that persists for 3 weeks or longer you should see a physician. You should see a physician at your earliest convenience if you can’t explain the origin of a prolonged cough with mucus.