Medical Encyclopaedia › COPD (short definition)
In brief: COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is a chronic lung disease in which the airways are permanently narrowed and the alveoli are often also destroyed (emphysema). Cough, sputum and shortness of breath that increase over the years are typical.
Causes
In Germany, the main cause is smoking, including long-term passive smoking. Other risk factors are exposure to dust and pollutants at work, air pollution, frequent respiratory infections in childhood and, rarely, congenital alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. The pollutants trigger chronic inflammation that narrows the airways and damages the lung tissue.
Symptoms
The disease often begins with a morning cough and sputum (“smoker’s cough”), which is easily underestimated. Later, shortness of breath develops, initially only on exertion and at an advanced stage also at rest. Acute worsenings, so-called exacerbations, are often triggered by infections and can make a hospital stay necessary.
Diagnosis
The lung function test (spirometry) is decisive: if the ratio of forced expiratory volume in one second to vital capacity is reduced after inhaling a bronchodilator, there is persistent narrowing. Body plethysmography, blood gas analysis and X-ray or CT of the lungs are used in addition. It is important to distinguish it from asthma, in which the narrowing can usually be largely reversed.
Treatment
The most effective single measure is stopping smoking; it slows the progression of the disease. Medication focuses on inhaled long-acting bronchodilators (LAMA and LABA), supplemented by inhaled corticosteroids in the case of frequent exacerbations and raised eosinophils. The correct inhalation technique should be practised regularly. Physical training, pulmonary exercise groups and respiratory physiotherapy improve exercise capacity and quality of life. Vaccinations against flu, pneumococci, COVID-19 and RSV, among others, are recommended. In advanced stages, long-term oxygen therapy, non-invasive ventilation or lung volume reduction procedures may be considered.
When to see a doctor?
A cough with sputum for several weeks, increasing shortness of breath on exertion or frequent bronchitis should be assessed by a doctor, especially in smokers. Severe shortness of breath, bluish lips or confusion are an emergency (call 112 in Europe).
Related terms in the encyclopaedia
Emphysema, Spirometry, Exacerbation, Bronchodilator, Stopping smoking, Pulmonary exercise, Long-term oxygen therapy, Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, Pneumococci, Bronchial asthma
Sources
- Bundesärztekammer, KBV, AWMF: Nationale VersorgungsLeitlinie COPD, AWMF-Register nvl-003
- Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD): Global Strategy for the Diagnosis, Management and Prevention of COPD (jährliche Aktualisierung)
- Ständige Impfkommission (STIKO): Impfempfehlungen für Personen mit chronischen Lungenerkrankungen
Note: This article is for general information and does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or pharmacist. Last updated: October 2026.