15 COPD Symptoms
Unexplained weight loss
About a quarter of people with COPD lose weight, or have trouble maintaining a healthy weight.
This is more common in those with emphysema-type COPD, rather than chronic bronchitis type.
Weight loss may be due to muscle atrophy (resulting from a lack of exercise or ability to move around); medications or underlying depression that cause loss of appetite; increased energy expenditure associated with breathing; or a combination of these factors.
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