Doctors with the NHS are issuing an urgent plea to the public, advising that a specific type of persistent cough should not be ignored, as it could signal a serious underlying lung condition.
While coughs and sore throats are common during the colder months, medical professionals warn that a chesty, phlegmy cough that does not go away could be a key symptom of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
The 'Missing' 600,000 COPD Cases
According to the charity Asthma + Lung UK, an estimated 1.7 million people in the UK are currently living with COPD. Shockingly, a further 600,000 people are believed to have the condition but remain undiagnosed.
This means hundreds of thousands of people could be living with a serious illness without realising it, potentially leading to severe complications if left untreated.
Recognising the Symptoms of COPD
The NHS outlines several key symptoms associated with COPD. The most common signs to watch for include:
- Persistent breathlessness that first appears during exercise and may even wake you at night.
- A long-term chesty cough with phlegm that does not resolve on its own.
- Experiencing frequent chest infections.
- Noticeable and persistent wheezing.
Other, less common symptoms can include unexplained weight loss, constant tiredness, swollen ankles, chest pain, and coughing up blood.
Symptoms typically start mildly and infrequently but gradually worsen over time. In more severe cases, COPD can severely impact breathing and make everyday activities incredibly difficult.
When to See Your GP and Available Treatments
If you experience any persistent symptoms of COPD, it is crucial to book an appointment with your GP as soon as possible.
A doctor will likely examine your chest and listen to your breathing. They may also ask you to use a spirometer, a device that measures your lung function by assessing how much air you can inhale and exhale.
Although there is currently no cure for COPD, the condition can be effectively managed. Treatments include inhalers and medication to ease breathing, as well as pulmonary rehabilitation—a specialised programme of exercise and education designed to improve a patient's quality of life.
The most effective way to reduce your risk of developing COPD is to stop smoking. For those already diagnosed, quitting smoking can lead to significant health improvements and slow the progression of the disease.
