Korean J Med.  2009 Oct;77(4):422-428.

Management of COPD

• Jung KS

Abstract

The prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Korea is reported to be 17.5% in aged over 45 years. The overall approach should be individualized and dependent upon the severity of the disease and clinical status of the patient. Objectives of COPD treatment are improvement of airflow obstruction, prevention and management of co-morbidity and complication of COPD and upgrading in the quality of life. Pharmacologic therapy includes bronchodilators such as beta-2 agonists, anticholinergic and theophylline. Another key pharmacologic agent is glucocorticosteroid which reduces acute exaceerbation and inflammatory burden in COPD airways. Non-pharmacologic management is not less important. Education including smoking cessation, rehabilitation, home oxygen therapy along with appropriate vaccination. More importantly, doctor-patient-patron relationship plays a central role in long-term management of COPD.

Keyword

COPD; Treatment; Pharmacologic therapy; Non-pharmacologic therapy

MeSH Terms

Aged
Bronchodilator Agents
Humans
Korea
Oxygen
Prevalence
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive
Quality of Life
Smoking Cessation
Theophylline
Vaccination
Bronchodilator Agents
Oxygen
Theophylline