COPD is initially suspected when people present with long-term difficulty breathing and cough along with a risk factor such as smoking or exposure to pollution.[1] Healthcare providers diagnose COPD based on signs and symptoms, personal and family medical histories, and also test results (lung tests, imaging and blood tests).[2] Talk to your healthcare provider if you think you have COPD; do not self-diagnose.
How is COPD diagnosed?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is diagnosed when a person exhibits long-term breathing difficulties and cough, particularly if they have risk factors like smoking or pollution exposure. Healthcare providers use a combination of signs, symptoms, medical histories, and various tests to confirm the diagnosis.