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Breathlessness: Don't Ignore This Silent COPD Sign
19 Nov
Summary
- Mild breathlessness can signal early COPD, often missed.
- COPD risks extend beyond smoking to pollution and indoor fumes.
- Lung function tests are vital for early COPD detection.
Shortness of breath, frequently dismissed as normal fatigue or aging, can be a critical early sign of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This progressive lung condition remains significantly underdiagnosed, particularly in India. A simple lung function test, often overlooked in routine check-ups, can detect COPD early, preventing irreversible decline and enabling timely management.
While smoking is a major risk factor, COPD affects non-smokers too. Exposure to indoor biomass fuel smoke, outdoor air pollution, occupational dust, and even secondhand smoke contribute significantly to lung damage. These factors irritate lungs, increasing vulnerability to infections and inflammation, a process that can begin years before symptoms appear.
COPD impacts the entire body, leading to worsening breathlessness, persistent cough, and frequent lung attacks that can require emergency care. It can affect heart health, muscle and bone strength, and cognitive function. Raising awareness about breathlessness as a symptom and promoting preventative measures like avoiding tobacco and reducing pollution exposure are vital steps toward better lung health for millions.
