The last stage of
COPD is severe COPD. A person with severe COPD has severe airflow limitation and is short of breath after just a little activity. During this stage, complications like respiratory failure or signs of right-sided
heart failure may develop. At this stage, the quality of life is greatly impaired and the worsening symptoms may be life-threatening.
When your COPD symptoms are severe, your doctor may recommend several treatment options. Some of these treatments may include one or more inhaled bronchodilators, inhaled steroids, and oxygen therapy.
In some cases, surgery may be recommended. There are two main types of surgery for COPD in its last stage. These include a lung transplant or a bullectomy.
(Click COPD Stages and COPD Treatment for a closer look at the last stage of this disease. These articles further define symptoms of COPD in its last stage and discuss possible treatment options that your healthcare provider may recommend.)
