[Chinese expert consensus on the management of cardiovascular comorbidities in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease].

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) often have co-existent systemic diseases(comorbidities), among which cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the most common. The interactions between COPD and CVD are manifested in shared risk factors, disease severity, common symptoms, risks for exacerbations and disease progression, as well as therapeutic interventions. However, there is a knowledge gap in the management of COPD comorbidities. This expert consensus aims to increase the awareness, and to promote early diagnosis and proper management of cardiovascular comorbidities of COPD in medical professionals in China. The experts recommend that differential diagnosis should be performed for exertional dyspnea, a common symptom of COPD and cardiovascular diseases especially heart failure. Screening for cardiovascular diseases is needed in patients with COPD, and should be managed accordingly. COPD and comorbid CVD should be treated according to usual guidelines. Patients with COPD tolerate well to most of the medications for CVD. Selective β-blockers for cardiovascular diseases are not contraindicated in COPD, but should be initiated from lower doses, and symptoms of airflow limitation be monitored. Likewise, β-agonists and antimuscarinic drugs for COPD are generally safe for patients with comorbid CVD. Optimization of COPD management can improve heart function and cardiovascular outcomes.