Anticipate COPD Exacerbations (Flares)

Your loved one with COPD has suddenly worsening symptoms. You both may think it's just a bad day, but it could be COPD exacerbation (a.k.a. flare).

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COPD Exacerbation (Flare)

Helpful Highlights

The signs of a COPD exacerbation go beyond day-to-day COPD symptoms.  The COPD symptoms become more severe and while everyone experiences exacerbations differently, there are definitive signs.  Sometimes it’s easy to confuse them with other conditions like severe allergies, or a very bad respiratory infection. If your loved one with COPD is experiencing severe symptoms, regardless of the reason, seek to manage them and report them to the primary care provider or pulmonologist as soon as possible.

Signs of impending exacerbation

Signs of active exacerbation and need for emergency care

Low Pulse Ox

Exacerbations can last for days or even weeks and may require high-flow oxygen, medications like antibiotics and oral corticosteroids, and even hospitalization.

As lung function declines, exacerbations tend to increase in frequency and severity.  Each time there is a COPD exacerbation, lung function may decline further.

What can you do for your loved one?

You can do a lot to help reduce the risk of exacerbations.

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