Question:  I am 62 years old and have been smoking for greater than 25 years.  I have become more short of breath recently.  I am concerned that I may have developed a problem associated with smoking.  I have never seen a lung docotor.  What symptoms should I be aware?  Should I see my family doctor?

Answer:  The most common lung disease associated with cigarette smoking is known as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD.  COPD is a common lung disease that affects 16 million Americans, and the number is growing.  COPD causes 13.4 million doctor’s visits and 634,000 hospitalizations each year.  Long-term smooking causes nearly all cases of COPD.  It takes many years for COPD to develop before people need medical help.  Most people begin to feel the disease symptoms between 50 and 70 years of age.

Usually people with COPD first notice problems with coughing or phlegm and then shortness of breath.  Symptoms sometimes creep up on people.  Without realizing it,  you may also cut back or stop doing some activities to prevent problems with breathlessness.  Over time the shortness of breath worsens, sometimes to the point that dressing and bathing become difficult.  Oxygen levels in the blood may fall, and carbon dioxide levels may rise, which can cause tiredness, poor concentration, and heart strain.  People with COPD are also at risk for heart disease.  COPD and heart disease often go together, because long-term cigarette smoking is one of the biggest risks for both diseases.

It is important that you first contact your family physician to be evaluated.  It will be the first step in identifying the problem you are experiencing.  Together with your doctor, you can learn ways to improve your breathing if in fact you are suffering from COPD.  Contacting your doctor immediately will allow him to evaluate your situation and treat your symptoms promptly.