Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common progressive disease with increasing respiratory distress who limits patients’ daily life. Aim: To illuminate patients´ experiences of living with COPD. Method: The study accomplished an overview through systematic examining of scientific articles with quality content analysis. Findings: The physical symptoms, especially respiratory distress, had negative effects which limited daily life, but with coping strategies, social support, and being treated with respect from surroundings can wellbeing and quality of life increase. Conclusions: Through increased understanding of patients´ situations and the advantages with rehabilitation the nurse can inspire patients’ and workmates and forward influence the managers to observe the positive effects of rehabilitation.