End-stagechronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) refers to being in the final stages of the disease.
At this stage, you’re able to expect to experience significant shortness of breath even when resting.
This article defines end-stage COPD and explains how it is diagnosed.
Illustration by Emily Roberts for Verywell Health
It presents treatment options commonly used in end-stage COPD and tips for coping with end-stage concerns.
By definition, “end-stage” refers to the last phase in the course of a progressive disease.
There are criteria that help define this stage.
It was updated in 2017.
How Long Can You Live With End-Stage COPD?
But other conditions, such as heart disease, actually accounted for two-thirds of these deaths.
The individual prognosis for someone with end-stage COPD will depend on a number offactors that influence COPD life expectancy.
They include:
Some people in end-stage COPD are still able to function reasonably well with few limitations.
On the other hand, there are also many people at this stage who are very sick.
Treatment
Often, treatment options haven’t been exhausted when diagnosed with end-stage COPD.
If you take a break from your oxygen supplementation, you may notice your symptoms worsening.
This includes a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) medication as well as a long-actinganticholinergic/muscarinic antagonist(LAMA).
Some combination inhalers include both of these categories of medication in a single inhaler.
Short-acting bronchodilators may also be used for symptoms.
(They may still be needed for exacerbations or during hospitalizations.)
Inhaled glucocorticoidsmay or may not be recommended.
While they reduce the risk of exacerbations, they also increase the risk a person will develop pneumonia.
They are likely helpful for people who also haveasthmaor who have one or more COPD exacerbations each year.
Supplemental Oxygen
Oxygen reduces breathlessness sparked by activity and at rest.
Surgery
Various surgical procedures may be needed in treating end-stage COPD in some people.
Coping
Living with end-stage COPD can make you feel scared and isolated.
Getting psychological andsocial supportis an important aspect of coping with the condition.
For resources to help with planning end-of-life care, visit theNational Healthcare Decisions Day website.
Advanced directives are documents that allow you to explain your wishes regarding end-of-life care.
The end of life is a time of sadness and deep reflection for you and your loved ones.
Remember that simple gestures like holding your loved one’s hand and being present can provide immense comfort.
Summary
End-stage COPD is diagnosed by a healthcare provider who evaluates your lung function.
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