I Have Emphysema Stage 1, I've Had It Since 1998

I have emphysema stage 1, I've had it since 1998 , I haven't smoked any since. Now I just found out that my potassium level is 5.4 high says my VA Doctor , also I now have a heart condition because of it . I have a family of heart failures , my father and two younger brothers In 8 years. I'm 61 5'-10" and 137lbs. How do tell my copd and my possible cardiac arrest pain apart? (Oh yes I'm a male)