If you’ve noticed you’re getting winded more easily than you used to, or you’ve had a nagging cough that just won’t quit, it might be more than “getting older” or “being out of shape.” Many Canadians live with undiagnosed COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) for years before they’re tested. The earlier you catch it, the more you can do to slow progression and protect your lung function.
At PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre in Alberta, we help people figure out what’s going on with their breathing and create straightforward care plans that fit real life. If you’re worried about your lungs, or researching for a loved one, this guide will walk you through the signs of COPD, why early screening matters, and how we can help.
What Is COPD?
COPD is an umbrella term for long-term lung conditions, most commonly chronic bronchitis and emphysema, that make it harder to move air in and out of the lungs. Over time, the airways become inflamed and narrowed, and the air sacs (alveoli) lose their stretch. That means less oxygen gets where it needs to go, and everyday activities start feeling harder.
COPD damage can’t be reversed, but with early detection, treatment, and lifestyle changes, you can slow the process, reduce flare-ups, and feel better day to day.
Why COPD Often Goes Undiagnosed
COPD tends to creep in slowly. People adapt to symptoms like taking the lift instead of stairs, skipping walks in the wind, avoiding hills, until “normal” looks very different than it once did. Early symptoms also overlap with other issues (asthma, allergies, long colds), so it’s common to chalk them up to something else.
Add in the fact that many people quit smoking years ago and don’t realise past exposure can still lead to COPD, and it’s easy to see why testing often comes later than it should.
7 Warning Signs of COPD You Shouldn’t Ignore
If any of these sound familiar, book a lung health assessment and ask about spirometry (more on that below):
1. A cough that won’t quit
A persistent, “smoker’s cough”, with or without mucus, most days of the week.
2. Shortness of breath with everyday activity
Walking to the mailbox, carrying groceries, climbing a single flight of stairs, if you’re more breathless than your peers, take note.
3. Frequent chest infections or “bronchitis every winter”
Repeated or lingering respiratory infections can be a clue that your airways are inflamed and vulnerable.
4. Excess mucus or phlegm
Producing sputum regularly, even when you’re not sick, is a common sign of chronic bronchitis.
5. Wheezing or chest tightness
A whistling sound when breathing out or a feeling of pressure in your chest.
6. Low energy and “I just don’t have the stamina I used to”
When lungs struggle, the rest of the body works harder. Fatigue is common.
7. Avoiding activities you used to enjoy
If you’ve quietly stopped walking with friends, playing with grandkids, or doing yard work because breathing is uncomfortable, that’s a flag.
None of these symptoms confirms COPD on their own, but together, they’re worth investigating.
Who’s at Higher Risk for COPD?
You don’t have to check every box to benefit from screening. Risk is higher if you have:
- Smoking history (current or former—cigarettes, cigars, or long-term second-hand exposure)
- Occupational exposure (dust, silica, welding fumes, chemicals, farm dust)
- Air pollution exposure (including wildfire smoke)
- Personal or family history of chronic lung disease or asthma
- Frequent respiratory infections in adulthood
- Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (a genetic condition — less common, but important)
If you recognise yourself (or a loved one) in these lists, don’t wait for a crisis to get tested.
Learn About Respiratory Consultations
Why Early Screening Matters
COPD is progressive, but the earlier you know, the more you can do:
- Protect the lung function you still have with evidence-based treatment
- Cut down flare-ups (exacerbations) that can land you in hospital and accelerate decline
- Optimise daily energy with the right inhaler plan, breathing techniques, and rehab
- Target infections quickly and prevent complications with vaccines and action plans
- Make lifestyle changes (activity, nutrition, smoking cessation) that truly move the needle
Think of screening as preventive maintenance for your lungs. It’s simple, non-invasive, and can change the course of your health.
Related: How Does the Flu Vaccine Protect You?
How COPD Is Diagnosed (and What to Expect)
The gold standard test for COPD is spirometry. At PulseAir, we make it straightforward:
- Spirometry (lung function test): You take a deep breath and blow out hard into a device that measures how much air you can forcefully exhale and how quickly (FEV₁ and FVC). COPD has a characteristic pattern your clinician can see.
- Pulmonary Function Testing (PFTs): Depending on your symptoms, we may assess lung volumes and diffusing capacity (DLCO) to see how well oxygen moves from your lungs to your blood.
- Oxygen checks & exercise assessments: We may measure oxygen levels at rest and while walking (e.g., a 6-minute walk test) to see how your lungs respond to activity.
- Chest imaging: A chest X-ray or CT scan can help rule out other causes and evaluate structural changes.
- Alpha-1 testing (if appropriate): A simple blood test can check for genetic risk in the right clinical context.
Good to know: You can be referred by your family doctor or contact us for guidance on next steps if you don’t currently have a provider.
Schedule a Respiratory Consultation
Living Well with COPD: Treatment & Day-to-Day Strategies
You’re not powerless. With the right plan, people with COPD stay active, independent, and engaged.
1. Medications that match your needs
- Bronchodilators (short- and long-acting) open the airways
- Inhaled corticosteroids may reduce airway inflammation (for some)
- Combination inhalers simplify regimens and improve control
- Know your technique: correct inhaler use is half the battle — ask us to check it
2. Pulmonary rehabilitation
A structured, supervised programme that combines exercise training, breathing techniques, education, and confidence-building. It’s one of the most effective ways to feel and function better.
3. Vaccinations & infection prevention
Flu, COVID-19, and pneumonia vaccines reduce serious exacerbations. Hand hygiene, early treatment plans, and quick access to care matter.
4. Oxygen therapy (if indicated)
Safe, modern systems support mobility and independence for those who need supplemental oxygen.
5. Move your body (smartly)
Regular activity keeps muscles efficient and reduces breathlessness. We can help you find the right pace and plan.
6. Nutrition & energy management
Small, balanced meals; staying hydrated; and pacing your day can help you feel stronger.
7. Smoking cessation support
If you smoke, quitting is the single most impactful step you can take. We’ll connect you with tools, medications, and community supports that actually work.
8. Mindset & mental health
Breathing changes can be frustrating and isolating. You’re not alone. Ask about peer support and resources for anxiety or low mood related to breathlessness.
Related: How Home Oxygen Services Can Help Manage COPD Symptoms
How PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre Supports Your Lung Health (Alberta)
We’re here for the whole journey, from “I think something’s off” to feeling confident with a tailored plan.
At PulseAir, you can expect:
- Comprehensive lung testing (spirometry, full PFTs, DLCO, 6-minute walk, oxygen assessments)
- Clear, personalised reports you and your family doctor can act on
- Collaborative care with your family doctor and respirology partners for long-term follow-up
- Practical, no-judgment education for you and your family — what to do day-to-day, and what to do if symptoms spike
Whether you’re seeking answers for yourself or supporting a parent, spouse, or friend, we make next steps simple.
When to Book a Lung Health Assessment
- You recognise two or more of the warning signs above
- You have risk factors (past or current smoking; dust/chemical exposure)
- You’ve had “bronchitis” more winters than you can count
- You’ve quietly stopped activities you used to enjoy because of your breathing
A quick assessment today can prevent a bigger problem tomorrow.
Take the First Step
If you’re in Alberta and worried about your lungs, or you’re helping a loved one figure things out, PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre is ready to help.
- Book a spirometry test or full lung function assessment
- Get a clear explanation of your results and options
- Leave with a plan that fits your life
Your lungs carry you through everything you love. Let’s look after them, together.