What Are The 4 Stages of COPD?

What Is COPD?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that makes breathing increasingly difficult over time. If you’re wondering, what are the 4 stages of COPD?, understanding these stages is essential for managing symptoms effectively and maintaining a good quality of life. COPD staging is used by healthcare professionals to assess disease severity, determine treatment options, and guide lifestyle recommendations.

What Is COPD Staging?

COPD staging is a system that classifies the progression of COPD into four stages, from mild to very severe. This classification helps healthcare providers evaluate lung function and tailor treatments according to the patient’s needs. The stages are based on a test called spirometry, which measures how much air you can inhale and exhale, as well as how fast you can blow air out of your lungs.

What Are The 4 Stages of COPD?

Each stage of COPD is defined by specific measurements from a spirometry test, which assesses lung function and helps classify the disease's severity. The primary focus in this test is the FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second), a measure of how much air a person can forcefully exhale in one second after taking a deep breath. FEV1 is compared to a predicted value, which represents the normal FEV1 measurement for a healthy individual of the same age, sex, height, and ethnicity.  The percentage of FEV1 compared to the predicted value is then used to stage COPD and guide appropriate treatment options.

Stage 1: Mild COPD: FEV1 ≥ 80% of predicted value

In the early stage, COPD may present with mild symptoms, often mistaken for a common cold or smoker’s cough. Breathlessness may occur occasionally, particularly after physical exertion. Many people in this stage are unaware they have COPD, and lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking can significantly slow disease progression.

Stage 2: Moderate COPD: FEV1 between 50% and 79% of predicted value

As COPD progresses, symptoms become more noticeable. In moderate COPD, patients may experience increased shortness of breath, frequent coughing, and fatigue. This stage often prompts people to seek medical help as everyday tasks may start to feel challenging. Pulmonary rehabilitation and medications to open the airways may be recommended.

Stage 3: Severe COPD: FEV1 between 30% and 49% of predicted value

Severe COPD significantly impacts daily life, with breathlessness becoming more frequent and intense. In this stage, exacerbations—sudden worsening of symptoms—are common. Patients may require oxygen therapy to help maintain normal blood oxygen levels, alongside medications and regular medical care.

Stage 4: Very Severe COPD: FEV1 < 30% of predicted value

Also known as end-stage COPD, this stage is marked by severe, persistent symptoms that make it difficult to carry out even basic activities. Respiratory failure may occur, requiring advanced treatments and often palliative care. At this stage, managing symptoms and ensuring comfort becomes the primary focus.

Managing COPD at Every Stage

Although COPD is not curable, early diagnosis and appropriate management can significantly improve quality of life. Treatments range from lifestyle changes and medication to oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, it’s crucial to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan.

For help finding a qualified COPD specialist, use My Health Assistant to connect with trusted healthcare providers near you.