Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure (HF) are both common diseases with major impact and seem to coexist more frequently than expected from their separate population prevalences. However, estimates of combined prevalence must be interpreted carefully because of imperfections and difficulties in assessment of both diseases. This review aims to highlight HF prevalence in patients with COPD and vice versa, with a critical analysis of studies performed. First, definition, diagnosis, and prevalence of COPD and of HF will be discussed. Subsequently, an overview of important studies concerning combined prevalence with their limitations will be presented. Finally, pathogenic mechanisms and diagnostic considerations in clinical practice will be discussed.

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After two years, a significant increase in MPH-induced DH in COPD patients was demonstrated, which was not accompanied by a decline in FEV(1). It might be that DH is a sensitive measure to track consequences of changes in airflow obstruction.

The limits of agreement of the IC measured by OM and OP were +/-10%, which is recommended for interdevice reproducibility. We conclude that OM and OP can be used interchangeably for measuring IC at rest and during steady-state exercise.

At similar ventilation, we found a similar degree of DH during arm and leg CWR tests in patients with mild to very severe COPD. Although differences in breathing pattern were observed between arm and leg exercises, these did not affect the level of DH.