What should you know about COPD GOLD treatment?

A GOLD airflow stage comes from spirometry, but treatment is not chosen from that label alone. Clinicians also ask how breathlessness affects walking, work and sleep, whether you have had flare-ups, and whether another condition contributes to symptoms.

Treatment may include inhaled medicines, education, activity planning, pulmonary rehabilitation where suitable, and support with smoking cessation. A persistent [Cough](/symptoms/cough/) or [Wheezing](/symptoms/wheezing/) should be discussed rather than managed by changing inhalers without advice.

Take each inhaler exactly as prescribed and ask for a technique check; a medicine can seem ineffective when the device is used incorrectly. Keep an agreed plan for flare-ups and bring all inhalers to a [Chronic Disease Review](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/chronic-disease-review/).

A [Spirometry](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/spirometry/) review may clarify the diagnosis or track breathing. If tobacco is part of your exposure, a [Smoking Cessation Programme](/treatments/lifestyle-and-wellness/smoking-cessation-programme/) can provide structured help. Gentle activity, rest during symptoms and avoiding smoky air may also reduce triggers.

Get urgent help if breathlessness is severe, starts suddenly, prevents speech, or comes with blue lips, confusion or fainting. Seek prompt advice for a marked increase in cough or phlegm, new [Chest Tightness](/symptoms/chest-tightness/), or symptoms that do not settle with your agreed plan.

What is each inhaler for, and how should I use it? Which symptoms mean I should start my action plan? Should I have a technique review, spirometry or rehabilitation referral?