Summary

• Progressive disease state characterised by airflow limitation that is not fully reversible.
• Suspected in patients with a history of smoking, occupational and environmental risk factors, or a personal or family history of chronic lung disease.
• Presents with progressive shortness of breath, wheeze, cough, and sputum production, including haemoptysis.
• Diagnostic tests include PFTs, CXR, chest CT scan, oximetry, and ABG analysis.
• Patients should be encouraged to stop smoking and be vaccinated against viral influenza and Streptococcus pneumoniae.
• Treatment options include bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, and systemic corticosteroids.
• Long-term oxygen therapy improves survival in severe COPD.