Stable COPD: Initiating and Optimizing Therapy

What other diagnoses should be considered in patients who continue to be symptomatic on optimal therapy?

Other diseases that share the same risk factors as COPD and can contribute to dyspnea, including coronary heart disease, heart failure, thromboembolic disease, and pulmonary hypertension, should be considered. In addition, all patients with refractory disease should have a careful assessment of their inhaler technique, continued smoking, need for oxygen therapy, and associated deconditioning.