There are four stages of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Patients may not know that they have a respiratory disease when it first takes hold. COPD comes in the form of a variety of ailments, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

According to COPD International, lung function declines about 5 percent every 10 years in adults over the age of 35. Those with COPD have a significantly higher decrease in lung function. According to American Lung Association statistics, this is one of the top five causes of death among seniors in the United States. The sooner it is diagnosed and treatment begins, the less likely it is to become severe. COPD can be fatal and often serves as a springboard for other serious medical problems, as well. These might include irregular heartbeats, heart failure pneumonia and a collapsed lung.

I - There are four basic stages of the disease. Those with the first, or mild, stage, have few symptoms and are able to function on their own at home. They cough sometimes or occasionally have shortness of breath, but generally do not realize there is a problem with their lungs. Quitting smoking at this stage is extremely beneficial, and can prevent a rapid acceleration of the COPD.

II – Shortness of breath often plagues those with moderate, or Stage II, who are very active and overexert themselves. When at rest, there is little notice of it. Coughing is more regular, but may or may not have mucus associated with it. It may be diagnosed when people with Stage II seek medical attention. There are about 12 million Americans who have been diagnosed with COPD. It is unknown how many actually have the disease, because many cases go undiagnosed.

III – Those in the third, or severe, stage find themselves short of breath more frequently with less exertion. They are less able to exercise or partake in frequent physical activities. They often suspect or know that there is a problem. Those seeking medical treatment are often referred to a healthy living program for patients to learn how to minimize the impact upon their daily life. Home care programs often teach these patients how to improve their lifestyles to increase their life expectancy. An in home health care agency may work with family and household members to help them learn how to assist the patient at this time and as the disease becomes more severe.

IV – Stage IV is a very severe stage of the disease. Those with end-stage COPD are often hospitalized frequently or may require regular homecare services. Oxygen therapy and medications may help make the patient feel better. Those suffering from this condition should avoid cold and smoky surroundings. These patients rarely leave home or do so with great difficulties.

COPD is best slowed down or prevented by never smoking or by avoiding gaseous and unclean air. If emphysema, chronic bronchitis pneumonia or other respiratory diseases are suspected, one should seek medical attention immediately.