Dear Dr. Mahler:

I recently viewed an on-line video about COPD. One of the experts keep saying that “COPD is a progressive disease.” Is that true?

I see my lung doctor once a year and have breathing tests before each visit. Last month she showed me my test results over the past 3 years. The tests for FEV1 and FVC were quite stable over that time period. She said that I am “maintaining” my lung function probably due to the two long-acting bronchdilators that I take daily.

This is very confusing, and I am sure that others with COPD have the same question and want to know the answer.

Keep posting,
Phil from Glenview, MT