Author/Editor		Lopert, Anton
Title		Zdravljenje kronične obstruktivne pljučne bolezni
Translated title		Managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Type		članek
Source		In: Lainščak M, editor. Zbornik predavanj Strokovna srečanja zdravnikov Splošne bolnišnice Murska Sobota v letu 2002/2003; 2003; Murska Sobota. Murska Sobota: Splošna bolnišnica Murska Sobota,
Publication year		2003
Volume		str. 55-60
Language		slo
Abstract		Background. Despite the fact that Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality throughout the world and it is increasing in prevalence, the disease has received relatively little attention from the medical profession and from the pharmaceutical industry so far. Recently its importance had been recognised in many countries. This has resulted in the formulation of treatment guidelines and an investment in research. Methods. Differences between COPD and asthma, clinical features, a way to correct diagnosis and management of COPD according to GOLD guidelines are shown. A questionnaire for chronic smokers about respiratory symptoms is introduced in the article. Conclusions. As the disease often goes unrecognised or it is recognised only in late, severe form, making the correct diagnosis is one of the most important things a physician can do for a COPD patient. Lung function tests are necessary for diagnosis, assessment of severity and following the course of the disease. Therefore it is recommended that spirometry should become routine diagnostic method in smokers, absolute necessary in case of chronic cough, sputum and dyspnea.
Descriptors		LUNG DISEASES, OBSTRUCTIVE SPIROMETRY PRACTICE GUIDELINES ASTHMA BLOOD GAS ANALYSIS BRONCHODILATOR AGENTS OXYGEN INHALATION THERAPY GLUCOCORTICOIDS