If you have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), it’s important to have a review at least once a year. Regular COPD reviews help us monitor your condition, manage symptoms, and reduce the risk of flare-ups (exacerbations).

What is the COPD review for?

The review allows us to:

• Check how well your COPD is controlled

• Review your breathing symptoms and activity levels

• Reduce the risk of exacerbations and hospital admissions

• Make sure your inhalers and medications are right for you

• Offer support to help you manage your condition day-to-day

Annual reviews are recommended by the NHS and are a key part of long-term COPD care.

What happens during the appointment?

Your COPD review is usually carried out by a practice nurse or healthcare professional and may include:

• A discussion about your symptoms, breathlessness, and any recent flare-ups

• Review of inhaler use and technique

• Assessment of your current medications

• Oxygen levels check (if appropriate)

• Review of your COPD action plan, if you have one

• Discussion about smoking status and support to stop smoking, if relevant

• Review of vaccinations such as flu, COVID-19, and pneumococcal vaccines

What you need to do before your appointment

You may be asked to:

• Attend any blood tests or checks requested before your review

• Complete a short questionnaire about your symptoms or breathing

What to bring with you

Please bring:

• All your inhalers and spacer devices

• A list of your current medications, if not already known

• Any questions or concerns you would like to discuss

Regular COPD reviews help us spot problems early and support you in staying as well and active as possible.

Helpful information and support

• NHS COPD Overview:
  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd/

• NHS Living with COPD:
  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease-copd/living-with/

• Asthma + Lung UK (COPD support):
  https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk