How can COPD be detected early? If you answered yes to 3 out of the 5 questions below, it is time to consider a pulmonary function test to determine if you have irreversible airflow limitation. 1. Do you often cough several times a day? 2. Do you often have sputum? 3. Do you feel shortness of breath more easily than your peers when doing the same activities? 4.Are you older than 40 years old? 5.Do you currently smoke, or have you ever smoked? Or do you live or work in a dusty, greasy and heavy environment?