Management of end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a potentially fatal, slowly progressive condition of the airways. It is a chronic disease which, although preventable, is not curable. COPD is one of the chronic conditions projected to increase over the next decade, and as a consequence causing increased morbidity and mortality. As the disease progresses the symptoms become more severe and, frequently, regular medication alone becomes less effective. It is essential that healthcare professionals are able to recognize, which is not always easy, when patients have reached this stage of the illness, to ensure appropriate care and management. This article provides an outline for healthcare professionals of clinical markers to help distinguish end-stage disease and pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions that may assist in achieving optimal symptom control and provide some quality to the patient's final stage of their life.