One of the most common symptoms of COPD is shortness of breath (also called dyspnea).
Which one of the 5 statements below best describes your shortness of breath?
0: Not troubled with breathlessness except with strenuous exercise.
1: Troubled by shortness of breath when hurrying on the level or walking up a slight hill.
2: Walks slower than people of the same age on the level because of breathlessness or has to stop for breath when walking at own pace on the level.
3: Stops for breath after walking about 100 yards or after a few minutes on the level.
4: Too breathless to leave the house or breathless when dressing or undressing.*
Bring this with you to your next doctor’s visit and discuss which rating you chose. This can help determine if you need further testing or a change in your treatment plan.
If you rated yourself a 2, 3 or 4, please call ConnectiCare at 1-800-390-3522 to speak directly with one of our respiratory Nurse Case Managers. Your case manager can help to answer your questions and provide you with information to help you feel better.
*footnote: Medical Research Council dyspnea scale. American Thoracic Society COPD 2005