COPD Action Plan
When completed with a health professional, a COPD Action plan helps you to recognise early signs of a flare up or worsening of symptoms so they can follow an agreed treatment plan.
View more
Smoking
This includes if you currently smoke, have smoked in the past, or are exposed to passive smoking. While not everybody who smokes gets COPD, most people who have COPD have smoked at some point in life. If you have COPD and are still smoking, the best thing you can do to slow the progress of the disease and increase the effectiveness of treatment is to quit. You don’t have to do this alone. Visit our Quit Smoking page for more information and support.
Environmental factors
COPD can also occur in people who have had long term exposure and contact with harmful pollutants such as dust, gas, chemical fumes, smoke or air pollution.
Genetics
Genetics can also play a role in the development of COPD, even if you have never smoked or been exposed to pollutants. A small number of people have a form of emphysema caused by a protein disorder called alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD). This is where the body finds it difficult to produce one of the proteins (Alpha-1) which protects the lungs. Read more about Alpha-1.
Respiratory Care Nurse
The Respiratory Care Nurse telephone service is available for people living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or bronchiectasis. Our nurse can provide guidance on all aspects of your condition according to the management guidelines. To arrange a free telephone appointment contact the Information and Support Centre on freecall 1800 654 301 or complete the form linked below.
