The term "blue bloater" is derived from the bluish color of the lips and skin commonly seen in patients suffering from Type B Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Signs and Symptoms of Blue Bloaters
A blue bloater has a history of cough with sputum for 3 months to one year or more. A blue bloater experiences cyanosis due to a decrease in sufficient amounts of oxygen reaching the blood. Ankles and legs may be swollen and distention in the neck veins may be apparent. A blue bloater primarily suffers from chronic bronchitis. Blue bloaters develop signs of right-sided heart failure.
