Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

This is in addition to any specific advice given to you by the ambulance crew you saw today

You should contact your GP if you experience the following symptoms

• an increasing breathlessness when exercising, or moving around
• a persistent cough with phlegm that never seems to go away
• frequent chest infections, particularly in winter.

If your symptoms are worse and you are having severe difficulty in breathing then you should call an ambulance immediately on 999. 

General advice

Give up smoking

Not smoking is the best way to prevent COPD. If you smoke, and have COPD, give up as soon as possible. Quitting can slow down the progress of the condition.

If your symptoms of COPD are mild, stopping smoking may be all that is needed to significantly improve them. It is important to avoid other people's smoke and smoky environments. 

Your GP can refer you to a smoking counselling service, or you can call the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0300 123 1044. Go to Quit smoking - NHS for further information and advice about giving up  smoking.

Get Regular Exercise

Regular exercise will help to strengthen your heart and lungs, and improve your breathing. Build up gradually if you are not used to exercising. Aim to do a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise a day, at least five times a week.

Losing weight, if you are overweight, can also be beneficial because extra weight can make your breathlessness worse.

Eat a balanced diet

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is very important for keeping your immune system strong and healthy. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables (at least five portions a day) and reduce the amount of fat, sugar and salt, in your diet.

Drink plenty of fluids

Drink Plenty of fluids, particularly water, to help to reduce the amount of mucus and phlegm in your throat and lungs.

Use a steam inhalator or humidifier

A steam inhalator or humidifier can be used at home to help to reduce excess mucus and phlegm. They can also reduce the feeling of being blocked up and being unable to breath properly.

Get vaccinated

If you have COPD, you are at greater risk if catching other illnesses, such as Influenza (flu). You should therefore have an annual flu jab every autumn (September to November)

A vaccination against Pneumococcus (a bacteria that can cause serious chest infections) is also recommended as a one-off injection.

If you have Ephritic syndrome (kidney damage), Splenic (injury to your spleen) or Asplenic dysfunction (no spleen), additional vaccinations may be required.

Patient advice leaflet: Reviewed June 2023