There are four stages and the previous posters are correct that the FEV1 number is one of the factors in determining the stage of the disease, but it's only one factor. The two most common staging protocols are the COPD Foundation's protocol file:///C:/Users/jean/Downloads/Pocket_Consulta...

and the GOLD
https://goldcopd.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12...

If you look at both, they take into account not only the FEV1, but also the number and severity (in the 2018 standards) of exacerbations as well as activity level..

Please remember that the staging process is designed to help docs who aren't pulmonologists determine what medications and treatments are appropriate for individuals in the various stages. It was never designed for patients, though there's certainly no reason for patients not to be familiar with it. It is a way to determine if your doc is prescribing the proper meds for you, or at least to give you some ideas for questions of your doc.

Hello Bambi, as Christine indicated there are four stages, mild, moderate, severe and very severe. A pulmonologist uses a Pulmonary function test to determine the stage, sometimes also a CT scan to get a better understanding of damage or the copd one might have.
That is a beautiful poodle you have.
God bless you!!!

Hi Bambi .. there are 4 Stages to COPD .. Your doctor would be able to give you the results of you pulmonary function test. That will show what stage you are in..
Have a good evening ... 🌙

Thank you @A MyCOPDTeam Member for your answer this has helped me .I was diagnosed last Fri with stage 4 I got such a fright ..it good to know that many people can live for years with this stage ..I gave up smoking 7 years ago .Take care have a good day ..

Mentioned Users

A MyCOPDT...

Hi Bambi. There r four steps. Mild , Moderate,. Severe, and End step. Don't let the end step scare you, many people live for a long time in stage four of they stick to excercise, quit smoking and diet not necessarily in that order but smoking is the major one, also keep up with meds and oxigen. Have a good day.