Final answer:
The treatment for COPD Category C patients typically includes long-acting inhaled bronchodilators and possibly inhaled corticosteroids. Smoking cessation is critical to slow disease progression, and vaccinations are important to lower the risk of respiratory infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The recommended treatment for COPD Category C patients who have minimal symptoms but a high risk of exacerbation usually includes the use of long-acting inhaled bronchodilators, such as long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) or long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs). These medications help by dilating the airways, making it easier to breathe, and reducing the risk of exacerbations. In some cases, inhaled corticosteroids may also be prescribed if patients keep having exacerbations despite bronchodilator therapy. It is critical for COPD Category C patients to also focus on smoking cessation as it can significantly slow down the progression of the disease. In addition, vaccinations for influenza and pneumococcal disease are recommended to decrease the risk of respiratory infections that could lead to exacerbations.