Abstract
Chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) is a frequent respiratory disease characterised by progressive airway obstruction and accelerated decline of lung function. Therapy of COPD relies on pharmacological and non-pharmacological measures with inhaled bronchodilators being the mainstay of pharmacotherapy.
In frequent exacerbators (COPD GOLD D) and in patients with COPD and asthma overlap (so called ACOS), inhaled corticosteroids are also indicated as add on therapy. Most cases of COPD can be prevented by reducing exposure to risk factors.
This includes decreasing rates of smoking and improving indoor and outdoor air quality. While treatment can slow worsening of COPD, there is no cure for this illness.
Some people may benefit from long-term oxygen therapy or lung transplantation.