The symptoms of COPD (emphysema and chronic bronchitis) can vary based on the extent of damage in the lungs, but are usually slow to develop and often don’t appear until significant damage has occurred. Symptoms can also be episodic and vary in intensity.
It’s not always easy to tell if you have COPD. Learn how to distinguish the signs of COPD from symptoms of other health issues.
Asthma is occasionally mistaken for COPD because it has similar symptoms.
Diagnosing COPD consists of a thorough review of symptoms, breathing tests, blood tests, and a chest x-ray.
GOLD’s most recent 2012 publication outlines an individualized approach to COPD classification and treatment.
When a COPD diagnosis is made, a physician will classify it in stages (mild, moderate, severe, or very severe) according to a person’s symptoms and overall lung function.
COPD sufferers can be at risk for some serious complications that can not only put their health in jeopardy, but can also be fatal.
As you age, your respiratory or breathing system ages, too. But that doesn't mean you should no longer be able to do the things you love.
Learn to tell the difference between normal aging and COPD »
