How is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) primarily managed?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management principally revolves around smoking cessation and the use of bronchodilators. Smoking cessation is critically important as it halts the progression of the disease and significantly improves overall lung function and health outcomes. Reducing exposure to tobacco smoke can lead to a marked improvement in symptoms and quality of life for individuals with COPD.

Bronchodilators, which can be short-acting or long-acting, are medications that relax the muscles surrounding the airways, making it easier to breathe. These medications are essential in managing symptoms like breathlessness and wheezing, and they play a crucial role in the overall treatment regimen for COPD. The combination of smoking cessation and bronchodilator therapy helps to manage the disease effectively, allowing patients to maintain better lung function and reduce the frequency of exacerbations.

While continuous oxygen therapy may be necessary for some patients with advanced COPD who exhibit low blood oxygen levels, it is not the first-line management strategy for all individuals with this condition. High-dose corticosteroids are typically reserved for acute exacerbations and not used as a routine maintenance therapy due to potential side effects. Inhaled antibiotics may be utilized in specific cases, particularly for patients with a history of frequent infections or chronic bronchitis,