COPD: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of lung diseases that make it difficult to breathe. This disease can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. It can also cause the production of excess mucus, which is a slimy substance.

What Is COPD? Causes & Risk Factors

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease characterized by chronic respiratory symptoms, limitation of airflow, and persistent inflammation of the airways and lungs. Globally, COPD affects over 300 million people and is a leading cause of death and hospitalization.

COPD develops from a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental exposures such as cigarette smoking, air pollution, and occupational hazards (e.g., dust, fumes). In some patients, a genetic disorder known as alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (SERPINA1 mutations) can directly cause COPD, often at a younger age.

  • Key Risk Factors: Smoking (current or past), secondhand smoke exposure, indoor/outdoor air pollution, history of infections, occupational dusts, and family history of COPD.
  • Other contributors: Poor lung development in childhood, frequent respiratory infections, and genetic predispositions.

Early identification and risk management, especially smoking cessation, are primary prevention strategies in every at-risk individual.

Signs & Symptoms of COPD

  • Chronic Cough – Often with mucus (sputum) production, especially in the mornings.
  • Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea) – Worsens over time, initially with activity, then at rest as disease progresses.
  • Wheezing and chest tightness.
  • Fatigue, reduced exercise capacity, unintended weight loss in advanced cases.
  • Frequent respiratory infections or ‘flare-ups’ (exacerbations).

Not all symptoms occur in every patient. Sometimes, mild cases go undiagnosed until significant lung function is lost.

Subtypes of COPD: Emphysema & Chronic Bronchitis

Emphysema

Emphysema is defined by damage to the lung air sacs (alveoli), resulting in reduced oxygen exchange, lung hyperinflation, and ‘barrel chest’ appearance. Physical activity becomes increasingly difficult.

Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is diagnosed when a productive cough lasts at least three months in two consecutive years. It is driven by inflammation and mucus production in the bronchial tubes. Discover our chronic bronchitis programs and prevention strategies.

Many COPD patients have features of both emphysema and chronic bronchitis, as well as overlapping conditions such as asthma or bronchiectasis.

Prevention & Early Intervention

Prevention is the cornerstone: The best way to reduce COPD risk is never to smoke or to stop as early as possible. We offer smoking cessation counseling, community education, and screening for early lung disease.

  • Early diagnosis enables timely intervention to preserve lung function and quality of life.
  • Minimize environmental exposure to dust, fumes, and pollutants when at home or work.
  • Encourage regular exercise and a balanced diet to strengthen overall health and reduce exacerbation risks.

Schedule an Appointment

For more information about bronchiectasis, call O2 Pulmonary & Sleep Group at 214-919-0757 or complete our online contact form to schedule an appointment online.