GOLD grade 1 is considered mild COPD. At this stage, at least 80% of lung function — as assessed by spirometry — is retained. At this stage, you have very few (1 or fewer) exacerbations each year, none of which require hospitalization.
Your healthcare team may use the term “Group A” or
“Group B” to describe your symptoms at this stage. People in Group A have less bothersome symptoms than those in Group
B and are typically able to be more physically active without feeling short of breath, though they might feel winded with more strenuous exercise.
COPD Progression Guide
mild
moderate
severe
very severe
Moderate COPD (GOLD grade 2) is defined by a further reduction in lung function. At this stage, FEV1 is 50–79%.
Flare-ups are still infrequent and do not require hospitalization.
At this stage, you may start experiencing more symptoms. You may walk more slowly than others or need more frequent stops to catch your breath. It may be more difficult for you to keep up with daily activities, and breathing problems or chest pain may affect your sleep.
In the final stages of COPD, lung function is reduced to less than 30%. Shortness of breath often occurs even without physical activity or effort, and exacerbations occur frequently. Some may be life threatening.
Additional complications are common in the later stages of COPD, such as weight loss, reduced muscle mass, and loss
of appetite. More intensive therapies — including mechanical breathing assistance or lung transplant — may be necessary to manage symptoms and prevent severe outcomes from flare-ups.
mild
moderate
severe
very severe
GOLD grade 3 is considered severe COPD. At this stage, your lung function is reduced to 30–49%. Flare-ups become more common, happening two or more times each year, with some requiring more serious intervention to manage symptoms.
Symptoms may vary at this stage. Chest pain, mucus buildup
in your chest, and breathing difficulties are all possible. These can further affect daily living and energy levels. You may feel unsafe about leaving home. This can affect your ability to care for yourself or connect with friends and family.
