A COPD flare-up happens when COPD symptoms (shortness of breath, cough, spitting up mucus) get worse, or when new symptoms develop. A flare-up is often triggered by a lung infection. Flare-ups are one of the biggest reasons why people with COPD become disabled or have to be hospitalized.
Learning how to avoid flare-ups is an important part of managing your disease. And the earlier you treat a flare-up, your chances of avoiding serious illness or a hospital stay improve. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to avoid a flare-up:
Know the early warning signals of a flare-up
Sometimes flare-ups still occur, despite even the best efforts to prevent them,. Early treatment of flare-ups can prevent you from becoming seriously ill or having to go to the hospital. This is why it's so important to know the warning signs of a potential flare-up. These warning signs include:
If you notice any of the above signs call your doctor right away or go to the hospital emergency department if you can't reach your doctor.
Remember to use your action plan
The action plan that you create with the help of your doctor is a great starting point for knowing what to do to prevent flare-ups and when to seek medical treatment. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
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