COPD Globe

Weight loss is associated with decreased lung function, as the body works harder and harder to breathe adequately. It is also indicative of the emphasis on COPD as a systemic disease – and not a disease solely associated with lung function. Weight loss in patients with COPD is due to increased metabolism and manifests itself as a loss of skeletal muscle and a wasting of limb muscle. Skeletal muscle weakness is common in patients with COPD, and exacerbates dyspnea. Weight loss alone is not a predictive factor, however, and may indicate carcinoma.