There will be some times when COPD symptoms suddenly get worse. These flare-ups are called exacerbations. They are usually caused by an infection in the lungs. Flare-ups can also be caused by an infection in the lungs. Flare-ups can also be caused by a change in the outside temperature or increased air pollution.
A flare-up may have the following signs:
- Increased cough
- Increased shortness of breath
- Increased mucus production
- Wheezing
- Shallow or rapid breathing
- Increased heart rate
- Increased body temperature
- Impaired mental status
- Extreme fatigue
- Change in mucus color
Call the doctor at the earliest sign of a flare-up. Treatments may include different medicines from the ones you are already taking. During a flare up, the doctor may suggest use of nebulized medicines. Many of the bronchodilators and corticosteroid medicines are prescribed for use in a nebulizer. This is a device that turns liquid medicine into vapor so it can be inhaled. If the doctor prescribes these drugs, ask the home oxygen supplier or pharmacy for an appropriate nebulizer. Most prescription plans cover nebulizers. Another option the doctor may suggest is using a short oral/systemic course of steroids, and/or a course of antibiotics.
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) is a research, training, and education program to promote the prevention and treatment of heart, lung, and blood diseases.