Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
COPD is a term to describe lung conditions that cause breathing problems.
What is COPD?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a general term to describe lung conditions caused by breathing problems. The most well-known ones are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is more common in middle-aged people, as well as in those who smoke. If you have COPD, we can help you to manage it and treat your symptoms.
Need to know
Generally speaking, the common symptoms include:
- a persistent chesty cough with phlegm
- frequent chest infections
- breathlessness
- wheezing
If left untreated, your symptoms can get progressively worse, so it's a good idea get them checked out.
Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you. They may also arrange a spirometry test to find out how well your lungs are working. They may also recommend other tests, like an X-ray or blood test.
Your consultant will explain your treatment options to you. These might include:
- lifestyle advice, such as stopping smoking
- inhalers and medication to help make breathing easier
- arranging pulmonary rehabilitation, a programme of exercise and education
- surgery or a lung transplant (depending on the nature of your symptoms)
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.