Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the name for a group of lung conditions that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. COPD makes it harder to move air in and out of your lungs, so you can get breathless. You might cough and bring up phlegm (sputum) too. 

About COPD

This information is for people living with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It might also be useful for friends, families and carers, along with our advice and support for people who are caring for somebody with a lung condition. 

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What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Find out what chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is, including the causes, symptoms and impact on your life.
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Chronic bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is one of the lung conditions that makes up chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
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Emphysema

Emphysema is one of the lung conditions that makes up chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
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How is COPD diagnosed?

Find out how all types of COPD are diagnosed, including what your GP should ask you, what tests you will need and what COPD stages are.
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Severe COPD

COPD is a progressive condition that gets worse over time. Find out more about severe cases of COPD, including severe symptoms and how to manage severe COPD.
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Treatments and medicines for COPD

Although there is no cure for COPD, there are a lot of treatments and medicines that can improve your symptoms and reduce the risk of flare-ups (exacerbations).
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What can you do to manage your COPD?

Find out about different ways you can manage your COPD to improve your quality of life. This page has ways to manage all types of COPD.

Lung volume reduction (LVR)

Find out what lung volume reduction is, what the procedures are and who can benefit from them.
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What is a COPD flare-up (exacerbation)?

A flare-up is when your COPD symptoms are suddenly worse. You might call this an exacerbation. Find out about how to prevent and manage COPD flare-ups.

COPD resources and support

Many people with COPD tell us they would like more help to understand and manage their condition. We would recommend that everyone with COPD should use our: 

COPD self management plan

Your COPD self-management plan

Managing your COPD can help give you control of your condition and prevent flare-ups (exacerbations). Find out how a self-management plan can help.

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Living with COPD booklet

This information is for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), their families, friends and carers. 


 

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COPD Patient Passport

Your Patient Passport is a best care checklist that can help you find out whether you’re receiving the right care for your COPD and what to do if you’re not.

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Airway clearance when you have a lung condition

When you have a lung condition, phlegm can build-up in your airways. Find out how to clear your airways using the Active Cycle of Breathing Technique (ACBT) or a handheld airway clearance device.

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Easy Read information about COPD

We have booklets which use simple words and pictures to tell you about COPD and living with a lung condition.

Easy read might be good for you if you want information that is simple and easier to understand. 

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Groups + support

Find support in your area, including support groups, exercise and singing for lung health.

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Keep Active programme

If you have a lung condition, being active can help you to manage your condition, feel better and improve your quality of life.

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How to use your inhaler

Watch our video guides to use your inhaler correctly and get the right dose to help you manage your symptoms.

Our helpline

Get in touch with our friendly helpline team for more information about COPD and practical support.

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My symptom diary

Use this resource to record and track your symptoms. 

Newly diagnosed? We’re here for you

We know that when breathing is hard, nothing is easy. After being diagnosed with asthma, COPD, or another lung condition, you may feel overwhelmed, stressed, or worried. Whatever you’re feeling right now, you’re not alone. We’re here to help you with clear, practical advice and support to help you navigate your diagnosis.

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We use your comments to improve our information. We cannot reply to comments left on this form. If you have health concerns or need clinical advice, call our helpline on 0300 222 5800 between 9am and 5pm on a weekday or email them.

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