What is COPD?
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. Symptoms include breathing difficulty, cough, mucus production and wheezing.
Stages of COPD
COPD is classified into four stages (GOLD 1–4) based on the severity of airflow limitation as measured by spirometry (FEV1 values).
- Stage 1 (Mild): FEV1 ≥ 80% predicted
- Stage 2 (Moderate): FEV1 50–79% predicted
- Stage 3 (Severe): FEV1 30–49% predicted
- Stage 4 (Very Severe): FEV1 < 30% predicted
Treatment
While COPD has no cure, treatments can help control symptoms and improve quality of life. These include bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, pulmonary rehabilitation and in severe cases, supplemental oxygen therapy.
Dr. Sunil Narute
MBBS · DTCD · DNB (Chest) — Chest & Respiratory Specialist