What is it?
COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, describes a range of lung diseases, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, non-reversible asthma and some forms of bronchiectasis.
COPD makes it hard for you to breathe. You can also experience tightness in the chest and wheezing. Smoking is the main cause of COPD.
While there’s no cure, treatment helps to improve symptoms and your quality of life. It’s important to get treatment as the condition can lead to heart problems and infections.
What will my GP do now?
Your GP will determine if your condition is mild, moderate or severe before developing a treatment plan for you. Your treatment plan will help to reduce the symptoms and risk factors.
Your GP will also:
- Give you the results of any tests
- Help you learn how to recognise and manage dangerous symptoms
- Review your diet and weight, and give you a referral for a dietitian if needed
- Prescribe medication if necessary
- Consider any factors at home or work that might be making your symptoms worse
- Help you develop a COPD Action Plan
- Give you advice to quit smoking
What will my GP do in the future?
Your GP will see you regularly to monitor your symptoms, medications and action plan. Your GP may take more tests and X-rays if there is a change in your symptoms over time.
If your symptoms aren’t improving, your GP might refer you to a lung specialist or other treatment program.
What can I do?
When you have COPD, it’s very important to quit smoking - phone 13QUIT to get started. You should also aim to avoid dust where possible.
Follow the advice in your COPD Action Plan, and continue to take any prescribed medication. See your GP regularly for check-ups. Also, speak to your GP about regular exercise and a healthy diet - you may wish to see a dietitian.
