Understanding the stages of COPD

COPD is a term that covers a number of progressive lung conditions that make breathing difficult, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema¹. One of the main causes is prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke, especially if the smoke is inhaled. However, breathing in second hand smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes and dust from the environment or workplace can also cause COPD².

1. Web MD. What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)? 
www.webmd.com/lung/copd/tc/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd-overview
Accessed on 4 August 2015

2. Web MD. 10 FAQs About Living With COPDWhat is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)? 
www.webmd.com/lung/copd/10-faqs-about-living-with-copd#2
Accessed on 5 August 2015

A chronic cough, one that lasts for several weeks without the presence of other illness such as cold or flu, is the first sign of COPD. The cough is usually worse early in the morning, and may be aggravated by exercise or smoke. Other typical symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, tightness in the chest and increased mucus (or phlegm) production ^1,2.

1. Healthline. Six signs of COPD. 
www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/copd-symptoms#9
Accessed on 24 June 2015.

2. European Lung Foundation. Lung Factsheet: Living well with COPD.

www.european-lung-foundation.org 
Accessed on 19 June 2015.

One of the main causes of COPD is prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke, especially if the smoke is inhaled. But breathing in secondhand smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes or dust from the workplace also can cause the condition¹.

These inhaled particles can cause the mucus glands that line the bronchi to produce more mucus than normal. In addition, the inflammation that they trigger causes the walls of the bronchi to thicken and swell. Environmental factors and genetics may also play a part in the development of COPD ^1,2.

1. Web MD. 10 FAQs About Living With COPDWhat is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)? 
www.webmd.com/lung/copd/10-faqs-about-living-with-copd#2
Accessed on 5 August 2015

2. medicinenet.com. Chronic Bronchitis 
www.medicinenet.com/chronic_bronchitis/page3.htm

Accessed on 5 August 2015.

Although there is no cure for COPD, there are many effective treatments available to help you manage your symptoms and slow the progression of COPD, so that you can live an active life¹.

1. Healthline. COPD and You: Managing Your Symptoms.
www.healthline.com/health/copd/and-you-symptom-management#1

Accessed on 10 July 2015.

COPD has four stages, each one with different symptoms of increasing severity. However, by monitoring your symptoms and effectively managing them, it is possible to slow the progression of the disease and to enjoy a more active life^1,2.

1. Healthline. COPD and You: Managing Your Symptoms.
www.healthline.com/health/copd/and-you-symptom-management#1

Accessed on 10 July 2015.

2. Healthline. COPD: Symptoms and Stages.
www.healthline.com/health/copd/stages#Overview1

Access on 6 June 2015.

Combining a program of exercise, education and support, pulmonary rehab can help you live more comfortably with COPD by increasing your capacity for exercise and improving your mobility. You’ll learn about effective breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, the use of medication and oxygen, good nutrition and travel tips, as well as how to avoid flare-ups and stay healthy. Pulmonary rehab also provides an opportunity meet others with COPD to exchange experiences, provide mutual encouragement and increase determination to improve fitness levels and fight the disease¹.

1. American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). Pulmonary Rehabilitation.
www.copdfoundation.org/Portals/0/Files/pdfs/AACVPR-FactSheet.pdf
Accessed on 6 June 2015.

Genetics can play a part in the development of COPD, even if you have never smoked or been exposed to pollutants for an extended period of time. In particular, emphysema can be triggered by a deficiency in alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT), which is a protein that protects the lungs from the harmful effects of white blood cells in the lungs. However, not everyone with COPD who has never smoked has a deficiency on AAT, so it is believed that there must be other genetic triggers for COPD¹.

1. COPD Foundation:
www.copdfoundation.org/What-is-COPD/Understanding-COPD/What-is-COPD.aspx#sthash.PjPozNK3.dpuf

Accessed on 23 June 2015.

There are a number of things you can do that will greatly help you to manage your COPD^1,2.

• Stop smoking
• Take regular exercise
• Eat well and maintain a healthy weight
• Practice breathing and relaxation techniques
• Learn how to cough effectively
• Recognize and avoid the factors that trigger flare-ups
• Have an action plan for flare-ups
• Take your medications as prescribed
• See your doctor regularly, even if you feel well, and especially if you have any concerns
• Find out if you qualify for pulmonary rehabilitation