Beyond the Pale's definitions

blue bloater

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).

Doctor: "The blue bloater in 902 coded this morning."

by Beyond the Pale June 2, 2011

pink puffer

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).

Doctor: "The pink puffer in 704 needs more supplemental oxygen."

by Beyond the Pale June 2, 2011