Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common and often particularly
debilitating disease. Progressively worsening breathlessness can limit normal daily
functioning, reduce quality of life (QoL) and increase the risk of premature death.
Importantly, early diagnosis, improving symptoms and QoL, along with minimising
exacerbations and hospital admissions, are primary goals of patient care. In recent
years, the assessment of COPD has moved away from equating disease severity
solely with the degree of obstructive lung impairment to include patient symptoms,
exacerbation history and comorbidities, as well as smoking status. There are now
more therapies that reduce symptoms and prevent exacerbations, thereby improving
QoL. This review explores the diagnosis and management of COPD and positive
clinical approaches to managing patients.