In patients with COPD, what symptom is often exacerbated by exertion?

In patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, is a prevalent symptom that tends to worsen with physical exertion. This occurs due to the limitations in airflow caused by the obstructive nature of the disease, where the lungs struggle to expel air effectively. During exercise, the body requires increased oxygen delivery, which amplifies the demands on the respiratory system. As a result, individuals with COPD experience a heightened sense of breathlessness when engaging in activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or any form of exertion.

While other symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and fatigue can also be present in COPD, they do not typically escalate as directly in response to exertion as shortness of breath does. Coughing and wheezing can occur independently of physical activity and may be influenced by other factors such as irritants or infections. Fatigue is commonly reported but is more related to overall disease burden or the energy expended in breathing rather than exertion-induced exacerbation. Thus, shortness of breath stands out as the primary symptom exacerbated by exertion in individuals with COPD.