What is COPD?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a long term lung problem that makes breathing hard. Many people have it but do not know.
There are two main types:
- Chronic bronchitis – swollen airways cause a long-term cough and phlegm.
- Emphysema – small air sacs in the lungs are damaged. Oxygen levels drop.
Symptoms develop slowly and there is no cure, but early recognition, proper treatment, and support can help people manage COPD and stay active.
But treatments can ease symptoms. People can stay active and live well.
Who Is at Risk?
Smoking now or in the past is the main risk. Long-term exposure to dust, fumes, or air pollution can also harm lungs. Rare genetic problems, like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, make some people more at risk.
In England, around 1.17 million people have a COPD diagnosis. Experts think up to 2 million more may have it without knowing.
Recognising Symptoms
COPD signs can start slowly. Common symptoms of COPD are:
- Shortness of breath, especially when walking or doing chores
- Cough that lasts a long time, sometimes with phlegm
- Frequent chest infections
- Wheezing or whistling sounds when breathing
People may put up with these symptoms, thinking they are either part of ageing or a ‘smoker’s cough’. But they are not normal symptoms and should not be ignored.
When to See a GP
See a GP if you notice long-term breathlessness or cough. Seek help if symptoms get worse. People over 35 with risk factors (smoking, exposure to pollution) should be alert.
The GP will ask about symptoms and history. They may listen to your chest and do a breathing test (spirometry). Other tests may include a chest X-ray or oxygen check. Early diagnosis helps manage COPD and prevent flare-ups.
Treatment and Management
Treatment helps with symptoms and keeps you active. Common options are:
- Inhalers to open airways or reduce swelling
- Pulmonary rehabilitation, exercises and advice for better breathing
- Medicines, often tablets used during flare-ups
- Advanced options, such as oxygen therapy, surgery, or lung transplant in severe cases
Other ways to manage COPD include stopping smoking, using inhalers correctly, staying safely active, keeping a healthy weight, and getting flu and pneumonia vaccines. Avoid dust, fumes, smoke, or strong chemicals.
Living Well With COPD
With care, people with COPD can stay active. Regular GP reviews help monitor the condition. A self-management plan can guide you if symptoms worsen. Support groups, like Asthma + Lung UK, give advice and peer support. They help with both physical and emotional wellbeing.
Take Action
Check your lung health and notice any changes in breathing or cough. Talk to your GP if symptoms continue.
Stopping smoking can reduce your risk of further lung damage — support and advice are available from NHS Quit Smoking. Follow your treatment plan, keep vaccines up to date, and consider joining support groups or pulmonary rehabilitation. Acting early helps people live better with COPD, and resources like Asthma + Lung UK can provide guidance and peer support.