Author/Editor		Kajba, Stanislav
Title		Ambulantno vodenje bolnikov s KOPB
Translated title		Outpatient management of patients with COPD
Type		članek
Source		In: Šorli J, editor. Zbornik predavanj Obravnava bolnika s KOPB (predlogi za nacionalna priporočila); 1997 jun 13-14; Portorož. Ljubljana: Pnevmološka sekcija Slovenskega zdravniškega društva,
Publication year		1997
Volume		str. 52-7
Language		slo
Abstract		Once the diagnosis of COPD is established, the patient should be educated about the disease and should be encouraged to participate in therapy and in preventive care (immunization, including pneumoccocal and annual influenza vaccine) and maintenance of an active lifestyle. It has long been established that the primary preventive measure in the management of COPD is smoking cessation. Outpatient pharmacotherapy should be organized according to the severity of disease and the patient's tolerance for specific drugs. The therapy goals are to induce bronchodilation, decrease the inflammatory reaction, and facilitate expectoration. In general, a stepwise approach should be considered. Inhaled bronchodilators are the first-line pharmacological therapy for patients, since anticholinergics and beta2-agonists produce consistent improvement in most patients. Other agents such as corticosteroids and theophyllines may have beneficial effects in subgroups of patients, but their effects should be carefully evaluated before they are continuously used. The implementation and availability of rehabilitation programs should be encouraged. Good co-operation between the general practitioners and chest physician has great importance for the COPD patient. Attention will focus on the most cost-effective and efficacious way in which the patients with COPD can be helped.
Descriptors		LUNG DISEASES, OBSTRUCTIVE AMBULATORY CARE