2 definitions by Beyond the Pale
A person suffering from advanced COPD with primarily chronic bronchitis rather than emphysema. Blue bloaters are so-named because impaired airflow leads to cyanosis (bluish coloration) and fluid retention (bloating).
by Beyond the Pale May 9, 2011
A person suffering from advanced COPD with primarily emphysema rather than chronic bronchitis. Pink puffers are so-named because the emphysema drastically increases the effort required to inhale and exhale, causing facial flushing (pinkish coloration) and obviously labored breathing (puffing).
by Beyond the Pale May 9, 2011