COPD is an umbrella term that covers both emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Most of us have elements of both diseases. Those with chronic bronchitis often are the people who have a cough and issues with excessive mucus production that make breathing difficult. People with emphysema don't have the cough but often are very short of breath (sob). The fact that you're short of breath and don't have a cough is consistent with emphysema being predominant. While emphysema is predominant for me, if I do get sick, I always develop a cough, which is the chronic bronchitis piece. If you don't have problems with excessive mucus production, be glad.

A good exercise program would help with your being sob. Talk with your doc about Pulmonary Rehab or starting your own program at home on your own. Being badly de-conditioned is common among people with emphysema. If you can exercise and build your strength and stamina, you will find life to be much easier.

I've been exercising and not so stressed out I lost 60 lbs. Very happy

Do you use a nebulizer? Also, there is this plastic thing (I forget what it's called) if you blow in it it vibrates to loosen up what's in your chest. Yes you will feel better if you could cough it up. I know I do.

I don't have mucus to cough up. My lungs are usually clear when they listen to them

Yes, you need to rid your lung of as much mucus as possible.