What Are the Symptoms of COPD?

COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It’s a long-term lung condition that makes it hard to breathe. It usually develops slowly over time and is most common in people over 40, especially those who have smoked [1]. The symptoms can get worse if not treated, but early diagnosis and proper care can help manage the condition.

What are the early symptoms of COPD?

In the beginning, the symptoms may be mild and easy to overlook. Early signs include:

A daily cough that doesn’t go away
Bringing up mucus (also called phlegm or sputum)
Shortness of breath, especially during exercise
Wheezing – a whistling sound when breathing
Feeling tired or low on energy

How do COPD symptoms change over time?

As the condition progresses, symptoms can become more noticeable and frequent. These may include:

More frequent coughing fits
Breathlessness during simple activities like walking or getting dressed
Chest tightness or discomfort
Needing to rest more often
Increased mucus that may change in colour or thickness

What is a COPD flare-up?

A flare-up (or exacerbation) is when symptoms suddenly get worse. Signs of a flare-up include:

Feeling much more breathless than usual
A sudden increase in coughing or mucus
Change in the colour or amount of mucus (e.g. yellow or green)
Fever or signs of a chest infection

Flare-ups can be serious and may require medical attention or even hospital treatment.

When should you see a doctor?

You should speak to your GP if you:

Have a long-term cough that won’t go away
Get out of breath more easily than usual
Have frequent chest infections
Notice your symptoms getting worse

Early diagnosis can help slow the progression of COPD and improve your quality of life.

Are there any other symptoms linked to COPD?

Yes, people with COPD may also experience:

Swollen ankles, feet, or legs (due to poor circulation)
Unintended weight loss or muscle weakness
Trouble sleeping or feeling anxious about breathing

These symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional, as they may need extra support or treatment [2].

Key Takeaways

COPD symptoms include coughing, breathlessness, wheezing, and excess mucus.
Early signs may be mild, but symptoms can get worse over time if not treated.
Flare-ups are sudden worsenings of symptoms and may require urgent care.
Other signs can include tiredness, weight loss, or swollen ankles.
Speak to your GP if you notice ongoing breathing problems – early help can make a big difference.

Reminder: COPD is a long-term condition, but with the right treatment, lifestyle changes, and support, you can manage symptoms and live well. Always attend regular check-ups and talk to your healthcare team about any changes.

Sources

[1] COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) - Patient

[2] Agarwal AK, Raja A, Brown BD. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. [Updated 2023 Aug 7]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559281/

COPD Symptoms