Know the signs of COPD

• Published: 12/31/2015

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a serious sickness that makes it hard to breathe and gets worse over time. COPD is the third leading cause of death in the United States. Parkland doctors say smoking is the main cause but secondhand smoke, dust, chemical fumes and air pollution can all cause COPD.  Getting treatment early means you can avoid getting very sick. 

Signs and symptoms include:

• Ongoing cough or cough that produces a lot of mucus.
• Shortness of breath, especially with physical activity.
• Wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe.) 
• Chest tightness.
  
  The best prevention is not to smoke. If you need help quitting smoking, call Parkland’s Smoking Cessation Clinic at 214.590.5603 to learn more.