By using this site, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Accept
Health Works CollectiveHealth Works CollectiveHealth Works Collective
  • Health
    • Mental Health
  • Policy and Law
    • Global Healthcare
    • Medical Ethics
  • Medical Innovations
  • News
  • Wellness
  • Tech
Search
© 2023 HealthWorks Collective. All Rights Reserved.
Reading: A Caregiver’s Guide to Understanding the Stages of COPD
Share
Notification Show More
Font ResizerAa
Health Works CollectiveHealth Works Collective
Font ResizerAa
Search
Follow US
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy
© 2023 HealthWorks Collective. All Rights Reserved.
Health Works Collective > Wellness > Home Health > A Caregiver’s Guide to Understanding the Stages of COPD
Home HealthSpecialtiesWellness

A Caregiver’s Guide to Understanding the Stages of COPD

eCaring
eCaring
Share
3 Min Read
SHARE

COPD guideChronic lower respiratory disease (COPD) refers to a group of lung diseases, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and in some cases asthma, that cause breathing difficulties and airflow problems.

COPD guideChronic lower respiratory disease (COPD) refers to a group of lung diseases, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and in some cases asthma, that cause breathing difficulties and airflow problems.

Today over fifteen million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD and in 2011 the disease was the third leading cause of death in the U.S.

Unfortunately the problem is extensive and underestimated – it is thought that another 12 million adults are affected by COPD but may not be aware they have it. 

More Read

The Staying Power of Spine Surgery Markets
A High Fiber Diet During Pregnancy May Reduce Celiac Risk In Children
What Is The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) And How Can CBD Affect It?
How To Choose Gym Equipment That’s Right For You
Cool Infographic: Obesity Around The World: New Year’s Resolution, Anyone?

Since the true prevalence of COPD is grossly underestimated, it’s important to understand the symptoms that accompany the disease in order to be able to intervene early.

What are the stages of COPD?

The stages of COPD are characterized by a measure of lung function, measured by a breathing test called spirometry.  The test shows how much air your lungs can hold and fast you can release air from your lungs. Results are reported as a percentage, with 100% being normal and decreasing amounts representing greater dysfunction.

The stages of COPD include:

Stage I: Mild COPD

In stage 1, lung function may already be abnormal however the person is unaware of it. Breathing tests will show some airflow restriction. Symptoms include chronic cough and mucus. At this stage, most people do not know to seek medical treatment.

Stage II: Moderate COPD

Moderate COPD, or Stage II, sees the worsening of airflow limitation. Shortness of breath upon exertion like climbing stairs appears as a symptom in addition to cough and sputum production. Immune functioning may also be suppressed, so the person may have more difficultly recovering from sicknesses like the flu and common cold. Most people seek medical attention starting at this stage.

Stage III: Severe COPD

A person becomes short of breath after very little activity during Stage III of COPD, also known as Severe COPD, and will notice they are quickly fatigued. Coughing becomes more frequent and the person may cough up mucus. Airflow is severely limited, and at times symptoms will worsen to the point of requiring hospitalization.

Stage IV: Very severe COPD

During the final stage of COPD, quality of life is greatly impaired and symptoms are life threatening. Lung function is less than 30% and the person may require oxygen therapy on a daily basis. This results in complications such as weight loss, cyanosis (blue skin coloring), edema (fluid buildup in legs and feet), chronic respiratory failure, and heart problems.

What suggestions can you offer for helping caregivers spot signs of COPD early on?

TAGGED:caregivingCOPD
Share This Article
Facebook Copy Link Print
Share

Stay Connected

1.5kFollowersLike
4.5kFollowersFollow
2.8kFollowersPin
136kSubscribersSubscribe

Latest News

a woman walking on the hallway
6 Easy Healthcare Ways to Sit Less and Move More Every Day
Health
September 9, 2025
Clinical Expertise
Healthcare at a Crossroads: Why Leadership Matters More Than Ever
Global Healthcare
September 9, 2025
travel nurse in north carolina
Balancing Speed and Scope: Choosing the Nursing Degree That Fits Your Goals
Nursing
September 1, 2025
intimacy
How to Keep Intimacy Comfortable as You Age
Relationship and Lifestyle Senior Care
September 1, 2025

You Might also Like

Specialties

The Technology Corner: Disruptive Technology for Prostate Cancer, Part I

May 17, 2012
Wellness

Need Detox? Start with Your Air and Water

July 5, 2017

Call to Action: America’s Health Rankings Senior Report

May 20, 2015
Dental healthSpecialties

Healthy Teeth is not an Option! It’s a way of Healthy Life

June 26, 2019
Subscribe
Subscribe to our newsletter to get our newest articles instantly!
Follow US
© 2008-2025 HealthWorks Collective. All Rights Reserved.
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?