If you have COPD, you likely know that it’s a chronic disease—typically caused by smoking—that can make it hard to breathe.
You should also know about things you can do to manage COPD and feel better, such as preventing and managing flare-ups.
Also called exacerbations, flare-ups are when your usual COPD symptoms suddenly get worse, often due to a lung infection.
COPD flare-ups can make you very sick. But if you recognize them early, your doctor can suggest treatments that may help keep them from getting worse.
Pay attention to how you normally feel when your symptoms are controlled. That makes it easier to notice when they’re getting worse. Watch for signs like these:
• Coughing up more mucus than usual (or the mucus is a different color).
• More difficulty breathing during activities like walking or showering.
• A new, worse or more frequent cough.
• Feeling more tired than usual.
• More difficulty sleeping.
• A fever or other signs of a lung infection.
Your doctor can help you plan ahead for flare-ups with a COPD action plan. It should include information about what to do if your symptoms get worse, such as which medicines to take and when to go to the emergency department.
Here are some steps that may reduce your chances of having a flare-up in the first place:
• Take your medicines as prescribed.
• Don’t smoke.
• Wash your hands often.
• Steer clear of people with colds or the flu.
• Stay current on flu, COVID-19 and pneumonia vaccines.
• Avoid fumes, dust and other lung irritants.
If there’s any chance you’re having a COPD flare-up, call your doctor right away. Early treatment may help you avoid more serious symptoms or even a hospital stay.
Watson Clinic’s Pulmonary department specializes in the treatment of COPD, and other conditions that afflict the lungs and respiratory tract. Call 863-680-7190 to schedule an appointment.
Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; American Lung Association; American Thoracic Society