Background;

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease characterized by airway obstruction. Common signs of COPD are the slow process and shortness of breath on exertion. The most important treatment is to quit smoking. Most nurses, regardless of where they work, will meet these patients, often when the patients are having respiratory disorders. Aim;

the aim of this study was to illuminate how patients with COPD describe the daily life based on how he/she experience and cope with the disease. Method;

The study was designed as a literature review with aim to critically review and compile the results from ten qualitative and two quantitative articles. Results;

Five themes emerged from the analysis of the articles, describing experiences of limitations, dependency, frustration, loss and life threatened. These experiences steered the patient's way to manage their disease. The management process could include changes in behavior, avoiding activities, symtom relief, adaption or acceptance. Conclusion;

The main limitation was perceived as breathlessness, and the management of the disease was directed to mitigate this to try to live as unlimited as possible.