Treatment & Medications
Many people with COPD have symptoms for years before receiving a diagnosis. Because COPD often develops gradually, symptoms may be mistaken for normal aging, allergies, being out of shape, or other health conditions.
Early diagnosis allows people to begin treatment sooner and take steps to better manage their lung health.
Who Should Talk With a Healthcare Professional About COPD Testing?
You may benefit from COPD screening if you have:
- A history of smoking or tobacco exposure
- Long-term exposure to workplace dust, chemicals, fumes, or other lung irritants
- A persistent cough
- Increased mucus (phlegm) production
- Shortness of breath during everyday activities
- Wheezing or chest tightness
- Frequent respiratory infections
- A family history of COPD or Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
COPD can occur in people who have never smoked, especially those with significant environmental exposures, genetic risk factors, or other lung conditions.
Spirometry: The Key Test for Diagnosing COPD
Spirometry is a simple breathing test used to measure how well your lungs are working.
During the test, you breathe into a device called a spirometer that measures:
- How much air you can breathe out
- How quickly you can move air out of your lungs
Spirometry helps healthcare providers:
- Confirm a COPD diagnosis
- Assess airflow limitation
- Determine disease severity
- Track changes in lung function over time
A diagnosis of COPD is based on symptoms, medical history, and spirometry results, not symptoms alone.
Understanding Your Treatment Plan
COPD treatment often includes a combination of approaches. Your healthcare professiona will work with you to determine which treatments are most appropriate.
Treatment may include:
- Medications
- Smoking cessation support
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
- Physical activity
- Breathing techniques
- Vaccinations
- Oxygen therapy when needed
- Managing other health conditions
COPD Medications
Medications for COPD help improve breathing, reduce symptoms, and prevent flare-ups. Your healthcare provider will choose medications based on your symptoms and needs.
Bronchodilators
Bronchodilators are medications that help relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe.
They may help:
- Reduce shortness of breath
- Improve airflow
- Make daily activities easier
Bronchodilators may be short-acting (used for quick relief) or long-acting (used regularly to help control symptoms).
Inhaled Corticosteroids
Some people with COPD may benefit from inhaled corticosteroids, which help reduce inflammation in the airways.
They may be recommended for certain people, particularly those with frequent flare-ups or specific symptoms.
Your healthcare provider will determine whether this type of medication is appropriate for you.
Combination Inhalers
Some COPD medications combine more than one type of medicine in a single inhaler. These combinations may help improve symptom control and reduce flare-ups for some people.
Using Inhalers Correctly
Using your inhaler correctly is an important part of COPD treatment. Even the right medication may not work well if it is not used properly.
Ask your healthcare professional or pharmacist to:
- Review your inhaler technique
- Make sure your inhaler is the best option for you
- Help troubleshoot challenges with using your medication
Tips:
- Bring your inhalers to healthcare appointments.
- Ask for a demonstration if you are unsure how to use them.
- Use medications exactly as prescribed.
Other COPD Treatments and Strategies
Pulmonary Rehabilitation
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a structured program that combines:
- Exercise training
- Breathing techniques
- Education
- Self-management strategies
Pulmonary rehabilitation can help people with COPD:
- Improve endurance and strength
- Reduce shortness of breath
- Feel more confident managing symptoms
- Improve quality of life
Despite its benefits, pulmonary rehabilitation remains underused. Ask your healthcare professional if it may be right for you.
Smoking Cessation
If you smoke, quitting is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your lungs and slow COPD progression.
Quitting can:
- Reduce symptoms
- Improve treatment effectiveness
- Lower the risk of flare-ups
- Improve overall health
Support is available. The New Hampshire Quitline provides free coaching and resources:
1-800-QUIT-NOW
Oxygen Therapy
Some people with advanced COPD have low oxygen levels and may benefit from supplemental oxygen.
Oxygen therapy may help:
- Improve oxygen levels
- Reduce strain on the heart
- Improve ability to complete daily activities for those who qualify
Your healthcare professiona will determine whether oxygen therapy is appropriate based on testing.
Vaccines and Preventing Respiratory Infections
Respiratory infections can trigger COPD flare-ups. Staying up to date on recommended vaccines is an important part of COPD care.
Talk with your healthcare professional about recommended vaccines, including:
- Influenza (flu)
- COVID-19
- Pneumococcal vaccines
- RSV vaccines when appropriate
Working With Your Healthcare Team
Managing COPD works best when you are an active partner in your care.
At appointments, consider asking:
- Are my symptoms well controlled?
- Am I using my inhaler correctly?
- Am I a candidate for pulmonary rehabilitation?
- What can I do to reduce my risk of flare-ups?
- Do I have a COPD action plan?
- Should I be tested for Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency?
