COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

COPD describes a group of lung conditions that make it difficult to empty air out of the lungs because the airways have become narrowed. In this section you will find information about what COPD is, the symptoms you might get, and how it’s diagnosed and treated.

We have also included tips about controlling breathing and how to manage flare-ups, also called exacerbations.

• What is COPD?
• How is COPD diagnosed?
• What treatments work?
• Managing your COPD
• Managing COPD flare-ups

Have you just been diagnosed? Read our overview to help you find the information you need.

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Speak to our helpline

Call 03000 030 555

 

COPD patient passport

Are you receiving the care you're entitled to? Use our COPD patient passport to find out.

Manage your COPD

Take control of your COPD with our leaflets, DVDs and self-management packs.

More people have COPD in the north of the UK than the south

Statistics about COPD

The number of people being diagnosed with COPD is falling

Statistics about COPD

The less well-off you are, the more likely you are to get COPD

Statistics about COPD

Nearly 40% of calls to our helpline are about COPD

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