I have stage 3 COPD and usually end up with at least one good case of bronchitis a year. With the help of a Z-Pak I am slightly better after a few days. But the lingering effects of hard to catch my breath, even though on oxygen 20 - 24 a day, is enough to have very little activity on a daily basis. Usually hard to breathe for 6 to 8 weeks. Is this common or is my COPD that debilitating?