For most people, getting a common cold is an annoyance. But for people living with COPD, viral respiratory infections can cause more serious problems. People living with COPD have scarred airways and compromised lungs, making it difficult to breathe. Add in an infection, which causes increased inflammation in the airways, leading to more coughing, mucus production and shortness of breath. Those with a weakened immune system may also have a harder time fighting off viruses. “That doesn't mean every cold is dangerous, but it does mean people with COPD should take cold symptoms seriously and monitor themselves carefully,” Dr. Meilan Han, the director of the Michigan Airways Program, explains.
She spoke with us about how people with COPD can manage their health after contracting a virus like the common cold.
Can a cold cause COPD exacerbation or hospitalization?
Viral infections like the common cold are one of the most common triggers of COPD flare-ups. In fact, research shows that 20-50% of COPD exacerbations are caused by viral respiratory infections. This is because viruses like the common cold, or rhinoviruses, affect the airways. This can cause swelling and increased mucus production, which can make COPD symptoms worse. “For someone with COPD, that extra inflammation can make breathing significantly more difficult and may trigger worsening symptoms that last days or even weeks,” Dr. Han says.
This strain on the lung is why many COPD-related hospitalizations occur because the patient caught a cold and was unable to fight it off. “Respiratory infections are among the leading reasons people with COPD require emergency care or hospitalization,” Dr. Han continued. Though not every cold will cause severe symptoms, she warns that, “The risk is higher in people with more severe COPD, those who have had prior exacerbations and those with other health conditions such as heart disease.”
How do I know if a cold is turning into a COPD flare-up? What are the differences?
Most people who contract a cold experience a runny nose, sore throat, congestion and a mild cough. But a COPD flare-up often involves changes in your baseline breathing symptoms. Dr. Han suggests looking out for warning signs such as:
- Increased shortness of breath compared with your usual level
- More coughing than normal or increased mucus production
- Changes in mucus color, especially if it becomes yellow, green or brown
- Increased wheezing or needing your rescue inhaler more often
- Fever
“Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips or fingertips, or symptoms that are rapidly worsening.”
It's important to contact your healthcare provider early. Treating an exacerbation promptly may help prevent it from becoming more severe.
How can people with COPD prevent sickness?
Though there is no way to completely eliminate the risk of contracting a virus, there are several steps that can help, like washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitizer. “Hand washing is especially important after traveling or spending time in crowded places,” Dr Han says.
Because a weakened immune system has a harder time fighting off infections, things like maintaining good sleep habits, staying physically active and eating a healthy diet can go a long way in maintaining your overall health.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick whenever possible. “A healthy body is often better equipped to fight infections. If you use tobacco products, quitting remains one of the most important things you can do for your lung health.”
And don't underestimate the value of common-sense precautions. If you're attending a large indoor gathering during a time when respiratory viruses are circulating widely, consider whether additional precautions may be appropriate for you. It may make sense for some people with COPD to wear a mask when in enclosed, public spaces.
“We are also beginning to understand that exacerbations can accelerate loss in lung function over time. So, it's even more important that people with COPD try to keep from getting sick in the first place.”
Should people with COPD get vaccines?
Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have for preventing serious respiratory illness. People with COPD should discuss recommended vaccines with their healthcare provider, including influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcal, RSV, shingles, and other age-appropriate vaccines. “No vaccine prevents every infection, but vaccines can reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. For many people with COPD, staying up to date on vaccinations is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect their lungs,” says Dr. Han.
Learn more about how to stay safe from respiratory illness and more about managing COPD on Lung.org.
Blog last updated: July 1, 2026
