Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major health problem. COPD will be the fifth leading cause of disability and the third leading cause of death in the coming decades. Treatments are known to be beneficial to COPD patients by improving symptoms and health status, reducing exacerbations and hospital admissions. Although the evidence does not support treating asymptomatic patients, symptomatic patients with undiagnosed COPD should respond to treatment like those who have been diagnosed.
Spirometry is most important to confirm the presence of airflow obstruction and to assess severity. Despite spirometry being strongly recommended in patients with respiratory symptoms by the ACP, ACCP, ATS, ERS, and GOLD, many physicians rely on clinical examination only. Prediction of airflow obstruction based on clinical examination and pulmonary auscultation can be inaccurate and could…
