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What exactly is COPD?

COPD, a disease little known to the public, is nevertheless one of the most common lung diseases worldwide and also in Germany. But what exactly is COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

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What is COPD?

COPD is a respiratory disease that affects around 6.8 million people in Germany. It is estimated that this number will increase to up to 7.9 million by 2030.

The abbreviation stands for the English term “chronic obstructive pulmonary disease”. This means in German “chronic obstructive lung disease” or in technical terms “chronic obstructive bronchitis” (COB). COPD is associated with both the terms “chronic bronchitis” and “pulmonary emphysema”.

COPD is usually associated with smoking or exposure to pollutants. Inhaling irritants causes inflammation of the bronchial tubes, thickening of their walls, and increased mucus production. In the long term, inflammation is responsible for the destruction of the lung alveoli.

In Germany, smoking is the cause of COPD in 90% of cases, but this is not the only risk factor.

In addition, there are further risk factors.

Air pollution indoors and outdoors, this cause is most common in low- and middle-income countries.

  • Exposure in the workplace, especially in the areas of mining, steel, construction, and agriculture (inhalation of coal dust)
  • Frequent lower respiratory tract infections in childhood.
  • Certain genetic factors have been reported, such as Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency. This is a protein that protects tissue during inflammation.

COPD is an active disease characterized by breathing problems. COPD patients usually have multiple symptoms.

The symptoms of COPD

  • Intermittent daily cough (chronic cough)
  • General shortness of breath, chronic respiratory failure
  • pantingPulmonary hypertension
  • Limitations of physical capacities
  • Extended expiration time
  • Sleep disturbances on the back
  • Blue discoloration of the extremities and lips
  • Deformation of the fingers and nails
  • Etc.

The stages of COPD

There are different classifications of COPD stages. The most common is the spirometric classification of COPD.

It is recognized by the High Health Authority (HAS). The spirometric classification is based on two indicators: “Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second” (FEV1) and Vital Capacity (VC).

Maximum expiratory volume per second (FEV1) = the volume of air exhaled during the first second of expiration after a deep breath.

Vital capacity (VC) = corresponds to the maximum volume of air in the lungs between inspiration and expiration.

We speak of COPD when the ratio between FEV1 and VC (FEV1 / VC) is less than 70%. Without illness, we lose at least 70% of the volume of our lungs in one second.

The stages of COPD are then determined based on the relationship between the patient’s FEV1 and their predicted FEV1. The predicted value is defined based on criteria such as age, gender, ethnic background, etc.

Stage 1 (mild): FEV1 ≥ 80% of predicted value
Stage 2 (moderate): 50% ≤ FEV1 <80% of predicted value
Stage 3 (severe): 30% ≤ FEV1 <50% of predicted value
Stage 4 (very severe): FEV1 <30% predicted value or FEV1 <50% predicted value (in severe chronic respiratory failure)

COPD Treatment and Management

It is not possible to cure COPD completely, but it is possible to slow down the progression of the disease and improve symptoms. Depending on the stage of the disease, treatment generally includes medications, respiratory rehabilitation, vaccination, and oxygen therapy.

Taking medication: Medications such as corticosteroids and bronchodilators may be prescribed. In the case of COPD, antibiotics can be administered in conjunction with a bacterial infection of the bronchial tubes.

The rehabilitation of the respiratory system with a physiotherapist can help to drain secretions, alleviate shortness of breath, and improve exercise capacity.

It is advisable to get vaccinated against influenza and pneumococcal to avoid the risk of a lung infection. Infections are indeed complicating factors for COPD.

In people with severe respiratory failure, oxygen therapy is sometimes necessary.

It is also important to quit smoking, avoid exposure to pollutants, and be active. Physical activity helps maintain the benefits of respiratory rehabilitation.

Keep up your physical activity with TOPRO Step.

It is important to avoid a sedentary lifestyle if you have COPD. Climbing stairs is a good way to exercise at home. However, it is common for people with COPD to have difficulty going up or down stairs. It is not uncommon to have to give up a floor of your house.

Given this problem, we often think of the electric stair lift. However, the electric stair lift encourages passivity in the affected individuals. TOPRO Step is an alternative to the stair lift, allowing you to climb the stairs yourself while ensuring your safety. Some of our affected individuals suffer from COPD, such as Oddbjørn.

Thanks to TOPRO Step, this former welder was able to regain his mobility on the stairs. He recommends TOPRO Step. Read Oddbjørn’s story.

Oddbjørn using TOPRO Step

Why choose TOPRO Step?

Installation in 3 steps

To carry out an on-site inspection and receive a quote, make an appointment with us. Once you have accepted the quote, we will carry out the installation, which usually only takes a few hours.

TÜV tested and certified

TOPRO Step is TÜV-tested and certified and meets all functional and safety requirements.

Adaptable to your staircase

TOPRO Step is designed so that it can be easily adapted to your staircase. It can be installed on straight stairs, curved stairs and stairs with a landing.

Check for insurance coverage or help

Ask your health insurance company about the possibility of cost coverage or possible subsidies. Please note that these options are country-specific and individual.

Up to 5 years warranty

TOPRO Step means TOPRO quality. When you buy a TOPRO Step, you receive a guarantee of up to 5 years.

Over 2,000 satisfied users

We measure success by satisfied customers, which is our top priority. We already have over 4,000 satisfied users throughout Europe.

Choose your TOPRO Step

Configure your TOPRO Step - in just a few steps!

Do you have any questions?

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We are happy to advise you

TOPRO Step Expert
+47 902 931 00
Monday - Friday
08:00 – 16:00 o'clock.

Request a callback

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