What are common symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is primarily characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms due to airflow limitation, which is mostly caused by long-term exposure to harmful substances, such as tobacco smoke. Among the most common symptoms of COPD are a chronic cough and shortness of breath. The chronic cough typically develops as a response to lung irritation and may produce sputum, while shortness of breath becomes more pronounced during physical activity or exertion.

These symptoms stem from the progressive nature of the disease; as airflow limitation worsens, individuals find it increasingly difficult to breathe, particularly during movement or exercise. The ongoing cough is often a sign of damage to the airways, which becomes more evident as the disease advances. Therefore, understanding these core symptoms is essential for early detection and management of COPD.