Question

Which of these factors if present suggest the diagnosis COPD?

A. Long history of heavy smoking.
B. Chronic cough with large amount of sputum production.
C. Breathlessness mainly on exertion, which is gradually increasing.
D. All of the above

Answer 1

All of the listed factors, including a long history of heavy smoking, chronic cough with a large amount of sputum, and increasing breathlessness on exertion, suggest the diagnosis of COPD. Diagnosis involves history, clinical examination, and spirometry.

Step-by-step explanation:

Which of these factors, if present, suggest the diagnosis of COPD? The correct answer is D. All of the above.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by a number of symptoms and risk factors that can aid in its diagnosis:

• Long history of heavy smoking: Tobacco smoking is the major cause of COPD, contributing to the breakdown of alveolar walls and reducing the lung's capacity for gas exchange. Exposure to secondhand smoke is also a significant risk factor.
• Chronic cough with a large amount of sputum production: This symptom, often referred to as chronic bronchitis, is a hallmark of COPD and indicates chronic inflammation in the airways.
• Breathlessness mainly on exertion, which is gradually increasing: Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing during physical activity, is a progressive and debilitating symptom of COPD. This occurs due to reduced elastic recoil and the resulting air trapping in the lungs.

Diagnosis of COPD is primarily based on history, clinical presentation, and confirmatory spirometry tests. While treatments like inhaled bronchodilators and supplemental oxygen can manage symptoms, there is no cure except for lung transplantation in severe cases.