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
    Health
    Healthcare organizations are operating on slimmer profit margins than ever. One report in August showed that they are even lower than the beginning of the…
    Show More
    Top News
    learn to recognize and treat yeast infections
    Most Commonly Asked Questions About Yeast Infections
    November 17, 2021
    Advanced lung cancer diagnosis systems used by doctors
    Advanced Lung Cancer Diagnosis Systems Used by Doctors
    March 6, 2022
    The Top Benefits of a Wearable Blood Pressure Monitor Watch
    The Top Benefits of a Wearable Blood Pressure Monitor Watch
    June 13, 2022
    Latest News
    Beyond Nutrition: Everyday Foods That Support Whole-Body Health
    June 15, 2025
    The Wide-Ranging Benefits of Magnesium Supplements
    June 11, 2025
    The Best Home Remedies for Migraines
    June 5, 2025
    The Hidden Impact Of Stress On Your Body’s Alignment And Balance
    May 22, 2025
  • Policy and Law
    • Global Healthcare
    • Medical Ethics
    Policy and Law
    Get the latest updates about Insurance policies and Laws in the Healthcare industry for different geographical locations.
    Show More
    Top News
    Chronic Disease Prevention Remains Top Priority
    September 9, 2017
    Worst Editorial of the Week Award
    September 13, 2017
    Are the Uninsured Getting a Free Ride?
    May 16, 2011
    Latest News
    Let Your Lawyer Handle the Work Before You Pay Medical Costs
    July 6, 2025
    Top HIPAA-Compliant Messaging Apps for Healthcare Teams
    June 25, 2025
    When Healthcare Ends, the Legal Process Begins: What Families Should Know About Probate and Medical Estates
    June 20, 2025
    Preventing Contamination In Healthcare Facilities Starts With Hygiene
    June 15, 2025
  • 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

Standing Desk
The Health Benefits of a Standing Desk
Dental Trends To Keep Your Smile In Perfect Health
ESPN’s Stuart Scott: Kickboxing Cancer
Enterprise Dose Management Is Radiology’s Opportunity to Lead
The Best Investments To Make In Your Health This Year

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

9 Lifestyle Tweaks That Can Add Years to Your Life
9 Healthcare Lifestyle Tweaks That can Add Years to Your Life
lifestyle
July 11, 2025
car accident lawsuit
Let Your Lawyer Handle the Work Before You Pay Medical Costs
Policy & Law
July 6, 2025
women dental care
What Is a Smile Makeover and How Much Does It Cost?
Dental health
June 30, 2025
HIPAA-Compliant Messaging Apps
Top HIPAA-Compliant Messaging Apps for Healthcare Teams
Global Healthcare Policy & Law Technology
June 25, 2025

You Might also Like

ObesitySpecialtiesWellness

Why You Should Consider Group Exercise For Weight Loss

July 15, 2019
CardiologyWellness

Here’s What To Know About Sleep And Heart Health

March 28, 2019
health and wellness
Wellness

Identifying Roles and Maximizing Success in the Pursuit of Health and Wellness

December 10, 2013
Specialties

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

May 17, 2012
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?