COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a long-term lung condition that causes breathing difficulties. It usually develops slowly over time and is most commonly caused by smoking, although non-smokers can also develop COPD.

COPD includes conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Symptoms can often be managed well with the right treatment, inhalers, lifestyle changes and regular reviews.

Common symptoms can include:

• shortness of breath
• a long-term cough
• wheezing
• producing more phlegm or mucus than usual
• frequent chest infections
• reduced ability to exercise or carry out daily activities

Symptoms may gradually worsen over time and can sometimes flare up suddenly.

There are several things that can help keep COPD under control:

• using inhalers correctly and regularly
• attending COPD reviews
• stopping smoking
• staying active where possible
• having annual flu vaccinations and other recommended vaccines
• recognising flare-up symptoms early

Many patients are also offered pulmonary rehabilitation, which combines exercise and education to improve breathing and quality of life.

Patients with COPD are usually invited for regular reviews which may include:

• checking symptoms and breathing control
• reviewing inhalers and inhaler technique
• discussing smoking cessation support
• reviewing flare-ups or hospital admissions
• checking oxygen levels where appropriate
• discussing vaccinations and winter planning

These reviews help reduce the risk of flare-ups and hospital admissions.

A flare-up is when COPD symptoms suddenly become worse than usual. Symptoms may include:

• increased breathlessness
• coughing more than normal
• increased mucus or phlegm
• changes in mucus colour
• fever or feeling generally unwell

Early treatment can help prevent hospital admission.

Call 999 or seek urgent medical help if:

• you are severely short of breath
• you have chest pain
• your lips or fingers look blue
• you feel confused, drowsy or faint

If symptoms are worsening but it is not an emergency, contact the practice or NHS 111 for advice.

Please contact the practice if:

• your breathing symptoms are getting worse
• you are more short of breath than usual
• you are coughing more or producing more phlegm
• your mucus or phlegm has changed colour
• you think you may be having a COPD flare-up
• you need advice about inhalers or medication
• you are struggling with daily activities because of breathlessness
• you are due a COPD review or vaccinations