Low
Most people can continue their usual outdoor activities. Some people with lung or heart conditions may still experience symptoms and should follow their normal clinical advice.
Air quality and COPD
Use the UK air-quality forecast to plan—not panic.
The official UK Daily Air Quality Index uses a 1–10 scale. It helps explain short-term pollution levels and the actions people with lung conditions may wish to consider.
Official UK scale
Daily Air Quality Index: 1 to 10
The UK system groups pollution into four bands. The advice below is a plain-English summary; always use the current official forecast and your own clinical advice.
Moderate
Most people can continue usual activities. If pollution triggers symptoms, consider reducing exposure and speak to a healthcare professional about new, worsening or persistent symptoms.
High
People with lung or heart conditions may need to reduce strenuous outdoor activity, particularly when symptoms occur. Follow the detailed official health advice.
Very high
People with lung or heart conditions should reduce strenuous outdoor activity. Others may also wish to reduce exertion, especially if they develop symptoms.
Planning a higher-pollution day
- Keep prescribed inhalers and medicines available.
- Choose a time or place with lower pollution where practical.
- Reduce strenuous outdoor activity if you develop symptoms.
- Avoid busy roadside routes when traffic pollution is high.
- Follow your COPD action plan if symptoms change.
Symptoms matter more than a number alone
People respond differently to air pollution. A low or moderate forecast does not guarantee that nobody will notice symptoms, and a higher forecast does not mean everybody must stay indoors.
Use the forecast alongside your own previous experience and the advice of your GP, respiratory nurse or COPD team.
Do not change medication because of the index alone
Continue medicines as prescribed. Changes to treatment should be based on your individual plan or advice from a qualified health professional.
Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty
Call 999 if you are gasping, choking, unable to speak, have a tight or heavy chest, blue or grey lips or skin, or sudden confusion.
Sources used for this page
Has air pollution affected your COPD?
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