Diseases and Conditions

Symptoms of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

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Frequent Respiratory Infections

People who are susceptible to respiratory infections tend to have COPD. Chronic bronchitis causes excess mucus which makes it difficult to clear the lungs. As a result, irritants get stuck and accumulate in the respiratory tract causing frequent infections. The infections can damage the lungs significantly, so it is advisable for COPD sufferers to take active measures to protect themselves against common respiratory infections. For instance, it is advisable for people with COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to take annual flu shots to protect themselves from recurring respiratory infections. Staying away from irritants like smoke is also advisable as it helps to reduce the probability of getting most infections linked to irritants.