Optimising treatment for COPD--new strategies for combination therapy.

ABSTRACT: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a multi-component disease characterised by airflow limitation and airway inflammation. Exacerbations of COPD have a considerable impact on the quality of life, daily activities and general well-being of patients and are a great burden on the health system. Thus, the aims of COPD management include not only relieving symptoms and preventing disease progression but also preventing and treating exacerbations. Attention towards the day-to-day burden of the disease is also required in light of evidence that suggests COPD may be variable throughout the day with morning being the time when symptoms are most severe and patients' ability to perform regular morning activities the most problematic. While available therapies improve clinical symptoms and

SUBMITTER: Welte T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2739483 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature