What should you know about COPD therapies?

Treatment is matched to symptoms, airflow, flare-up history, other health conditions and inhaler technique. Inhaled medicines may relax tightened airway muscles or reduce airway inflammation. Some people also need support for mucus, infections or low oxygen, depending on clinical findings. Pulmonary rehabilitation can combine supervised exercise with breathing and self-management skills. Treatment does not reverse established airway damage, but it can make breathing and activity more manageable. Regular reviews help identify whether the plan is working and whether medicines are being used correctly.

Use inhalers exactly as prescribed and ask a clinician to watch your technique; small technique errors can prevent medicine reaching the lungs. Keep an agreed flare-up plan and know when to contact your care team. Avoid smoke and other known irritants. If you smoke, a Smoking Cessation Programme can provide practical support. Attend a Chronic Disease Review so symptoms, activity, vaccinations, inhaler needs and home routines can be discussed. Spirometry may be used when the diagnosis or airflow needs checking.

Get urgent help if breathlessness becomes severe, you cannot speak comfortably, your lips look blue or grey, you become confused or faint, or chest pain is severe or persistent. Seek prompt advice when rescue treatment is needed more often than usual, usual medicines are not helping, or fever and increased mucus accompany worsening breathing. Do not change prescribed doses or stop regular inhalers without medical advice.

What is each inhaler for, and when should I use it? Can you review my technique? What should my flare-up plan say? Would rehabilitation or smoking-cessation support suit me?