Contact

Select a language

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

What you need to know

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a group of lung conditions that get worse over time, making it difficult to breathe. It includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, which damage the airways and air sacs in the lungs. COPD is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide but spotting it early and proper care can improve quality in a big way. 

Book a screening: Find your GP practice using our navigation map page. Call the number provided to book now. 

Middle aged man using airflow sensor device

What causes COPD?

COPD is primarily caused by long-term contact with irritants that damage the lungs and airways. The most common causes include: 

  • Age: It’s a contributing factor, but not on it’s own. COPD develops slowly and symptoms often appear in people over 40, if they have a history of smoking, environmental or genetic risks (like the below) too. 
  • Smoking: The leading cause of COPD, accounting for about 85-90% of cases. 
  • Environment: Being around air pollution, chemical fumes, or dust for a long time. 

Symptoms of COPD

COPD symptoms often develop gradually and worsen over time. Common signs include: 

  • Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity 
  • A wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing 
  • A persistent cough, often with phlegm  
  • A lack of energy and feeling tired 
  • Frequent chest infections 
  • Chest tightness 

If left untreated, or not managed properly, COPD can lead to severe health complications, like heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory (breathing) system failure. 

Risks of COPD complications

If left untreated, or not managed properly, COPD can lead to severe health issues, like heart disease, and respiratory (breathing) system failure, as well as: 

  • Respiratory infections: People with COPD are more prone to pneumonia, flu, and other lung infections, which can worsen symptoms and lead to hospitalization. 
  • Heart problems: COPD increases the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and heart attacks due to reduced oxygen levels in the blood. 
  • Pulmonary hypertension: High blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs can strain the heart and lead to heart failure. 
  • Depression and anxiety: Difficulty breathing and reduced activity levels can take a toll on mental health. 
  • Lung cancer: Smoking-related COPD significantly raises the risk of developing lung cancer. 

Managing COPD effectively and seeking early treatment can help reduce the risk, or severity of these related health problems. 

How is COPD diagnosed?

COPD is diagnosed using medical history, physical exams, and tests. During diagnosis, tools like this are usually used: 

  • Chest X-rays or CT scans: Imaging tests to check for lung damage. 
  • Arterial blood gas test: Measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in your blood. 
  • Pulse oximetry: Checks the oxygen saturation in your blood. 
  • Spirometry: A breathing test that measures how much air you can breathe out, and how quickly. 

Early diagnosis is important for slowing down the worsening of this disease, to improve overall health outcomes. 

Managing COPD

While there is no cure for COPD, it can be managed effectively with the right approach. Treatment options include: 

  • Quitting smoking: The most important step to slow disease progression. 
  • Oxygen therapy: For severe cases, supplemental (extra) oxygen helps breathing. 
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation: A program of exercise, education, and support to improve how your lungs work. 
  • Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding lung irritants can improve symptoms. 
  • Medication: Inhalers, bronchodilators, and steroids to open airways and reduce inflammation. 

Why screening matters

Many people with COPD don’t realise they have it until the disease has gotten much worse. Early screening can help find COPD before serious lung damage occurs, making space for better management and treatment options. 

If you have a history of smoking, being around lung irritants, or ongoing problems with your breathing — a screening for COPD is vital. 

Book a screening today

Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. Early detection of COPD can improve your quality of life and prevent serious complications. If you’re at risk or experiencing symptoms, book a screening today. The health of your lungs is important. Here’s how: 

  1. Visit our navigation page, scroll down to the interactive map. 
  2. Locate your GP practice clinic, or the one closest to you. 
  3. Call the number listed to book a screening, or visit their website listed for more ways to contact them. 

Other services