What happens if COPD is not treated?

COPD affects airflow through the lungs. Ongoing irritation and narrowing can cause shortness of breath, wheezing, cough and reduced exercise tolerance. People may gradually avoid activity because breathing feels difficult, which can lead to loss of fitness and make everyday tasks harder.

Flare-ups may bring a noticeable increase in breathlessness, cough or phlegm. Repeated or severe flare-ups can require urgent treatment and may place extra strain on the body. Nicotine dependence can make stopping smoking difficult, but continued smoking or exposure to irritants can keep lung damage active.

Arrange a Chronic Disease Review to check symptoms, inhaler technique, vaccinations, activity and an action plan for flare-ups. Spirometry may help confirm airflow obstruction and measure how your lungs are working.

Use Inhaler Therapy exactly as prescribed and ask for a technique demonstration if the device feels unfamiliar. A Smoking Cessation Programme can support people who smoke or use nicotine. Pace activity, keep moving within your limits and discuss breathlessness rather than stopping all exercise.

Call emergency services for severe breathlessness at rest, inability to speak in full sentences, blue or grey lips, new confusion, collapse or chest pain. Use your agreed flare-up plan while waiting for help, if you have one.

Seek same-day medical advice when breathlessness, wheezing, cough or phlegm suddenly worsens, or when usual reliever treatment is not helping. Early review can identify infection or another trigger.

Ask what your usual breathing level should be, how to recognise a flare-up, whether spirometry is needed, and how to check inhaler technique. Ask about stopping nicotine, safe activity and the point at which symptoms require emergency help.