My husband has copd. His pulmonary function test has fallen 11 points to a 39 in the last year. He works in a chemical plant and used to smoke. He uses his symbicort twice a day. I am concerned about this significant decrease in such a short time. What would be a logical next step?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. COPD is chronic, progressive disease. And chemical exposure and cigarette smoking actually worsens it. For better management of COPD along with Symbicort inhaler you have to follow these steps also. 1. Quit smoking as soon as possible.  This is the most important step.2. Enroll him in pulmonary rehabilitation center where chest physiotherapy and deep breathing exercise are done. 3. Adult vaccination with pneumococcal and influenza vaccines for prevention of future lung infections. Simultaneous application of all steps with inhaled therapy is needed for better survival in COPD patients.