E
ven though most of the symptoms of COPD in women are similar to those of other conditions, there is always a way to know if you are suffering from this condition or not. According to health experts, more than 90% of people with this disease are not even aware that they have it. In fact, people often ignore the symptoms when they first occur because they tend to equate them to less serious conditions. Clinical tests have revealed that serious symptoms may not occur until significant lung damage has taken place.
How to identify COPD
It is important therefore to know how to identify COPD. If you smoke or are constantly exposed to people who do then you have a higher risk of developing this serious condition. Visit your doctor as soon as you can for the necessary tests and diagnosis. Possible tests will include chest X-rays and breathing volume tests. Diagnosis of COPD is only possible when a doctor is involved. Even so, there are certain signs and symptoms that can help you suspect that you may be suffering from this disease and need immediate medical attention.
Medical experts are aware of about six symptoms that patients with this condition often develop. However, the severity of the condition varies from one patient to another. It is important to talk to your doctor when you are experiencing continuous coughing which worsens in the morning. You need to check if there is any mucus or phlegm from the breathing passages. Even though coughing may be a natural response to irritants entering the lungs, it is also an indication that the lungs are not functioning properly.
The Early Stages
Over production of mucus is another sign that you need to watch out for. The first two symptoms manifest in the early stages. When you begin to experience shortness of breath then the condition has progressed to the moderate stage and you are likely to experience bouts of breathlessness as your lungs cannot take in more air. Another moderate symptom is the wheezing which is a feeling of tightness in your chest. It could also be a sign of infection in the lungs. Women tend to tire easily and experience loss of stamina. However, fatigue is a sign of many other things hence the need to talk to your doctor. Finally, frequent flareups of all the mentioned symptoms is an indication that the condition has progressed. Taking note of symptoms of COPD in women can help save a life or improve its quality.
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