COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is the name for a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It mainly affects people who smoke or used to, and usually people in middle age or older [1].

Common symptoms include increasing breathlessness (especially when active), a long-term cough that brings up phlegm, frequent chest infections and wheezing. Symptoms tend to get gradually worse and can flare up [1].

Smoking is the main cause, with the risk increasing the more and longer you smoke. Long-term exposure to some dusts and fumes can also contribute, and rarely it is linked to a genetic condition [1].

A GP will ask about your symptoms and smoking history and arrange breathing tests to confirm COPD and rule out other conditions such as asthma [1].

COPD cannot be reversed, but treatment can slow it down and ease symptoms. The most important step is stopping smoking; other treatments include inhalers and medicines, and a programme of exercise and education called pulmonary rehabilitation [1].

See a GP if you have ongoing symptoms of COPD, particularly if you are over 35 and smoke or used to. Get urgent help if you become very breathless or your symptoms suddenly get much worse [1].