Signs And Symptoms Of COPD

Regular Respiratory Infections

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease makes it more difficult to clear pollutants and bacteria from the lungs. Thus, patients with this condition will likely have regular respiratory infections. Doctors recommend that chronic obstructive disease patients get vaccinated for the flu and pneumonia to reduce their infection risk. Patients should also wash their hands frequently, and it is important to avoid air pollution and pollen. Since dust can irritate the lungs, patients are advised to keep their homes as clean as possible.

The patient's doctor should be contacted at the earliest sign of a potential respiratory infection. Early warning signs for these infections include increases in mucus production, worsening shortness of breath, and increased wheezing. Patients in the early stages of a respiratory infection could develop a fever and experience pain while swallowing. Their throat may feel sore, and headaches or nasal congestion may be present. Although individuals with these symptoms might not feel sick, a doctor should still be contacted right away so that any necessary treatment can begin as soon as possible.