Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a long-term lung condition that makes breathing difficult. People with COPD often have comorbidities, which refers to other medical conditions.
COPD is a term that describes two long-term conditions that interfere with airflow in and out of the lungs and make it difficult for someone to breathe. These conditions include chronic bronchitis and emphysema — most people with COPD have both. In the United States, COPD affects about
In severe cases, COPD
The article below explores what COPD comorbidities are and discusses five possible COPD comorbidities in more detail. It also discusses when to speak with a doctor.
Comorbidities are common in people with COPD. The authors of a 2018 study of 1,584 people with the condition found that roughly
COPD and some of its common comorbidities share similar risk factors, such as smoking. The condition also causes systemic inflammation, which can affect other organs and increase a person’s risk of developing certain comorbidities.
Someone with COPD may have one or more of a range of comorbidities. The following sections discuss five potential COPD comorbidities in more detail.
A stroke occurs when there is a blockage of blood flow to part of the brain. Research from 2022 found that people with COPD have an
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Symptoms
A stroke is a medical emergency, so if a person recognizes any symptoms, they should call 911 immediately.
Learn more about the FAST signs of stroke.
Obstructive sleep apnea involves brief pauses in breathing during sleep. A 2020 study found that
Symptoms
Osteoporosis is a condition that involves a loss of bone mass and bone density. Experts estimate the prevalence of osteoporosis, which doctors define as low bone mineral density, among people with COPD ranges between
Symptoms
People with osteoporosis often do not have any symptoms of the disease. The first noticeable sign of the condition may include a fracture. Bones may become so fragile that fractures occur due to the following:
- minor falls
- bending
- lifting
- coughing
Chronic kidney disease occurs when the kidneys become damaged and cannot properly filter the blood. This leads to a buildup of waste in the body.
A 2016 Taiwanese study found that people with COPD had a
Symptoms
People may not notice any symptoms of chronic kidney disease until they reach the advanced stages of the condition. These symptoms may include:
Experiencing COPD along with a comorbidity
Therefore, if someone has COPD symptoms with or without a comorbidity, it is vital to consult a doctor. They can help someone learn how to manage their conditions and recommend appropriate treatments.
Possible
People with COPD that have any of the following should consult a doctor as soon as possible:
- new symptoms
- worsening symptoms
- symptoms that do not improve with treatment
COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Many people with COPD also have one or more comorbidities.
Some comorbidities that may occur along with COPD include congestive heart failure, obstructive sleep apnea, and chronic kidney disease. COPD and some of its comorbidities share similar risk factors and symptoms.
People with COPD and comorbidities may have an increased risk of complications and unfavorable health outcomes. A person should speak with a doctor who can diagnose any comorbidities in those with COPD and recommend appropriate treatments.
