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COPD Causes and Symptoms
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COPD Causes
- Smoking is the most common reason people develop COPD.
- Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency causes less than one percent of COPD. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is suspected if there is early onset of COPD, little or no history of smoking and a family history of COPD.
- Exposure to occupational hazards or environmental substances such as those found in coal mining may also cause COPD.
COPD Symptoms
COPD can cause:
- Breathlessness
- Cough
- Production of sputum (phlegm)
- Tiredness (especially with activity)
These signs and a history of smoking are an indication for testing to determine if you have COPD.
Source: American Thoracic Society
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