What symptoms suggest a diagnosis of COPD?
• Typical symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease include: • Exertional breathlessness. • Chronic cough. • Regular sputum production. • Frequent ‘winter bronchitis’. • Wheeze. • Other symptoms that may be present include: • Weight loss. • Exercise intolerance. • Ankle swelling. • Fatigue. • Chest pain or haemoptysis. These are uncommon, and their presence may indicate an alternative or concomitant diagnosis. For more information, see Differential diagnosis.
