COPD Support Group

Early symptoms or warning signs are unique to each person. These warning signs may be the same, similar or different with each episode. Usually, you will be the best person to know if you are having trouble breathing. However, some changes are more liklely to be noticed by other persons. It is important to share this information sheet with your family and those close to you.

A change or increase in the symptoms you often have maybe the only early warning sign. You may notice one or more of the following:

1. An increase or decrease in the amount of sputum produced

2. An increase in the thickness or stickinessof sputum

3. A change in sputum color to yellow or green or the presence of blood in the sputum

4. An increase in the severity of shortness of breath, cough and/or wheezing

5. A general feeling of ill health

6. Ankle swelling

7. Forgetfulness, confusion, slurring of speech and sleepiness

8. Trouble sleeping

9.Using more pillows or sleeping in a chair instead of a bed to avoid shortness of breath

10. An unexplained increase or decrease in weight

11. Increase feeling of fatigue and lack of energy that is persistent

12. A lack of sexual drive

13. Increaseing morning headaches, dizzy spells, restlessness

The early signs of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for which many people seek medical attention before being formally diagnosed include marked shortness of breath with exertion, a cough that won't go away, or frequent  respiratory infections. This is often at a point when the disease is already advanced. Many people might be indentified earlier if their doctors rountinely screen all patients who are smokers or previous smokers.

1. Why should I be aware of changes in my symptoms?

2. What are the early warning signs?

3.When should I call the doctor?

4. What will make my symptoms worse?

These are questions that everyone is asking Why, What, and When. By doing in what your heart is telling at that time should you follow it  (YES) Why cause it will help you a great deal if you are able to seek help right away. You will have a better control on (What) the doctor's need too do for you to help you breath better..

What is COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease in which the lungs are damaged, making it hard to breathe. In COPD, the airways-the tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs-are partly obstructed, making it difficult to get air in and out.

Cigarette smoking is the most common cause of COPD. Most people with COPD are smokers or former smokers. Breathing in other kinds of lung irritants, like pollution, dust, or chemicals, over a long period of time also cause or contribute to COPD.