Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a long-term lung disease that makes it harder to move air in and out of the lungs. COPD commonly involves chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or features of both. Although existing lung damage cannot usually be reversed, treatment can reduce symptoms, lower the risk of flare-ups and help people stay active.
Symptoms
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
- Persistent cough, with or without mucus
- Wheezing or noisy breathing
- Chest tightness
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Tiredness and reduced ability to exercise
Symptoms often develop gradually. In more advanced COPD, some people experience unintended weight loss, muscle weakness or swelling of the ankles, feet or legs.
Causes and risk factors
Long-term exposure to substances that irritate and damage the lungs is the main cause of COPD. Cigarette smoking is the most common risk factor, but COPD can also occur in people who have never smoked. Secondhand smoke, air pollution, workplace dust and chemical fumes can contribute. A genetic condition called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can increase the risk of COPD and emphysema, sometimes at a younger age.
Diagnosis
A healthcare professional will review symptoms, smoking and exposure history, family history and other medical conditions. Spirometry is the main lung function test used to diagnose COPD. It measures how much air you can breathe out and how quickly you can exhale.
Additional tests may include oxygen measurement, chest X-ray or CT imaging and blood tests. Testing for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency may be considered when appropriate.
Treatment
There is no cure for COPD, but treatment can improve breathing and quality of life and reduce complications. Treatment is individualized and may include:
- stopping smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke and other lung irritants
- short-acting or long-acting bronchodilator inhalers to open the airways
- inhaled anti-inflammatory medicines for selected people
- pulmonary rehabilitation with supervised exercise, education and support
- vaccination to reduce the risk of serious respiratory infections
- oxygen therapy for selected people with persistently low blood oxygen
- specialist procedures or surgery for carefully selected people with severe disease
Correct inhaler technique is important because different inhalers are used in different ways. Ask a healthcare professional to check your technique if you are unsure.
COPD flare-ups
A COPD exacerbation, or flare-up, is a noticeable worsening of symptoms. Breathlessness, coughing, wheezing or mucus production may increase. Respiratory infections, smoke, air pollution and other irritants can trigger flare-ups.
Follow your personal COPD action plan and seek medical advice when symptoms are clearly worse than usual. Treatment may include additional bronchodilators, a short course of corticosteroids or antibiotics when a bacterial infection is considered likely.
When to seek urgent help
Seek emergency medical care for severe or rapidly worsening breathing difficulty, inability to speak normally because of breathlessness, blue or gray lips or skin, new confusion, extreme drowsiness, collapse or severe chest pain. Use your local emergency medical service when symptoms are severe or life-threatening.
Living with COPD
Regular physical activity, pulmonary rehabilitation, good nutrition and avoiding smoke can help maintain strength and independence. Keep scheduled follow-up appointments and discuss any persistent change in symptoms with your healthcare team.
Related topics
Sources
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: COPD
- NHLBI: COPD Diagnosis
- NHLBI: COPD Treatment
- MedlinePlus: COPD
Last reviewed: 4 September 2026. This page provides general health information and does not replace individual medical advice.