My first cold in ages with severe COPD

Hi all - just a question to know what is relatively normal with a cold and COPD.

Reminder of myself - alpha 1 antitrypsin deficient - age 57 severe but stable COPD (mix of emphysema and chronic bronchitis).

First time in ages with a cold and wow was I short of breath and am still suffering despite cold beginning to fade. Lots of mucus and breathing sounds really horrible. Couldn't walk 20 m without struggling a few days ago. Seem to be a little better now in terms of moving but my breathing sounds bad still and the mucus is horrible. Just finishing a rescue pack of prednisone and antibiotics.

Will this improve slowly over a few weeks? What are your experiences?

Many thanks.

Steve