[COPD-nonpharmacological treatment]

The modern concept of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) goes far beyond pure medical therapy. Solely treating obstruction and inflammation of the airways does not correspond to the complexity of this illness which now is considered a systemic disease. Therapeutic planning comprises prevention, early physiotherapy and physical training, educational measures, and, in advanced stages, long-term oxygen therapy, mechanical support of the ventilatory muscular system by noninvasive ventilation and surgical measures. To stop smoking is the most important preventive measure which succeeds in up to 40% when carried through consequently. COPD will eventually lead to a steadily decreasing cardiopulmonary performance. Physical training therefore is of utmost importance. Physical training will be accompanied by ventilatory and physiotherapy, a sophisticated dietary treatment, as well as education and motivation of the patient in order to develop competence in self-management. Further treatments in advanced stages consist of long-term oxygen therapy and intermittent noninvasive ventilation. The latter is the treatment of choice for acute respiratory insufficiency. Operative treatments like lung volume reduction and lung transplantation are only indicated in selected cases.