Better breathing when sick with lung illness

Here’s something that I find interesting! No one in my asthma groups seem to have the same experience so I thought I’d ask here:

Currently, Im sick with a cold. Wel, since my mild copd began, whenever I get a cold or bronchitis ( I have NOT experienced covid so I don’t want to say ALL lung sicknesses) but, whenever I get these two airway sicknesses, my breathing is MUCH more “smooth”. Of course, the mucus is flowing and Im coughing/clearing throat for sure but i don’t find myself needing to use my inhalers as much. Im not “wheezing” and my chest doesnt feel tight”.
Now, how can this be? It seems like lung sicknesses like bronchitis generally cause WORSE breathing in folks with lung disease.
As soon as I feel healthier, the bad breathing rears its ugly head.
Wanted to see if anyone relates.
Thanks again,

Brit