Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung disease. Having COPD makes it hard to breathe.

There are two main forms of COPD:

• Chronic bronchitis, which involves a long-term cough with mucus
• Emphysema, which involves damage to the lungs over time

Most people with COPD have a combination of both conditions.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is usually treated by a pulmonologist, a doctor who specializes in lung diseases. They help manage breathing issues and other symptoms. A primary care doctor also plays a role, especially in monitoring the condition and making sure medications are working. Other specialists may be involved, like respiratory therapists who teach breathing exercises, and sometimes a cardiologist because COPD can strain the heart. If the disease affects daily activities, physical therapists may help with exercise routines to improve strength and breathing. 

The main symptoms of COPD include: 

• Shortness of breath 

• Persistent cough that produces mucus  

• Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing) 

• Frequent respiratory infections, like colds or bronchitis 

• Chest tightness or discomfort 

• Feeling very tired 

• Trouble doing everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs 

COPD is diagnosed with a test called spirometry. This test measures how much air a person can breathe in and out, and how quickly the air is exhaled. If the lungs are not moving air properly, it may indicate COPD. Doctors may also use chest X-rays or CT scans to check for lung damage. Blood tests can be used to measure oxygen levels or rule out other conditions, such as asthma or infections. Early diagnosis is important to begin treatment and help slow the progression of the disease. 

There is no cure for COPD, but treatments and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The most important thing is quitting smoking since smoking causes most cases of COPD and quitting can help slow down the disease. People with COPD usually use inhalers or bronchodilators to help open the airways and make breathing easier. For severe COPD, oxygen therapy may be needed if oxygen levels are low. Pulmonary rehabilitation, which includes exercises and breathing techniques to make the lungs stronger, can also help. 

Life expectancy for someone with COPD depends on how advanced the disease is. People with mild COPD can live many years if they stop smoking and follow their treatment plan. In more advanced cases, life expectancy may be shorter, but early diagnosis, regular care, and lifestyle changes can still make a big difference. Using oxygen, staying active, and managing symptoms well can help people with severe COPD live longer, healthier lives. 

There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

• Your primary care provider recommends it. 

• Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 

• Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 

• You need specialized testing or procedures. 

• You want a second opinion.  

It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

You can find a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor in any of the 10 largest U.S. cities by clicking below:

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near New York, NY
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Los Angeles, CA
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Chicago, IL
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Houston, TX
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Phoenix, AZ
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Philadelphia, PA
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Atlanta, GA
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Boston, MA
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near Dallas, TX
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor near San Jose, CA

MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor search results page. 

Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

• Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 

• Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 

• Family history of disease 

• List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 

• Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  

• List of questions and concerns 

• Your insurance card 

You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

Here are some sample questions: 

• Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 

• What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 

• What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 

• Are there other specialists I need to see? 

• What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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