COPD and Comorbid Conditions
Last updated: August 2023
When someone has more than one health condition, they are said to have comorbid conditions or comorbidities. Most people living with COPD have comorbid conditions. In fact, one study found that more than 78 percent have at least one comorbidity, and more than 47 percent have 3 or more comorbid conditions.1
This article provides information on a few of the most common COPD comorbidities and invites you to let us know which you experience. As always, feel free to share more with us in the comments below.
Cardiovascular disease
Cardiovascular disease is often cited as the most frequent comorbidity faced by people living with COPD. Cardiovascular disease refers to a number of conditions affecting the functioning of the heart, including heart failure, heart arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, and more.1
Community Poll
Do you manage any heart conditions along with your COPD?
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a condition that is caused by high blood sugar. Around 15 percent of people with COPD have type 2 diabetes as well. Managing both conditions can be a challenge, but many people have found success by practicing good self-care.2
Community Poll
Do you manage type 2 diabetes along with your COPD?
Sleep apnea
Many people with COPD also experience sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing is interrupted during sleep, which can contribute to low blood oxygen levels and poor sleep quality. If left untreated, the combination of COPD and sleep apnea can greatly diminish a person's quality of life.
Community Poll
Do you manage sleep apnea along with COPD?
What other conditions do you manage alongside your COPD? What are some best practices? Let us know in the comments below.
Community Poll
What stage was your COPD diagnosed as?
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