COPD flare-ups (also called exacerbations) can be frightening and potentially serious. These episodes of worsening symptoms can impact your quality of life and may lead to hospitalization if severe. The good news is that many flare-ups can be prevented or managed effectively when caught early. This guide will help you recognize warning signs and take steps to avoid these troublesome episodes.
Understanding COPD Flare-ups
A COPD flare-up occurs when your symptoms suddenly worsen beyond your usual day-to-day variations. During an exacerbation:
- Your airways become more inflamed and produce more mucus
- Breathing becomes more difficult than usual
- Your lungs may not work as efficiently at removing carbon dioxide
- You may need additional medications or medical care
Flare-ups can be triggered by infections, air pollution, or other factors, and they can last for days or even weeks if not properly treated.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Recognizing the early signs of a flare-up allows you to take action quickly. Be alert for:
Changes in breathing:
- More shortness of breath than usual, especially at rest
- Difficulty completing activities you normally can do
- Waking up breathless at night
Changes in cough:
- Increased frequency or severity of coughing
- Changes in the amount of mucus produced
- Changes in mucus color (yellow, green, or rust-colored instead of clear or white)
Other warning signs:
- Increased wheezing or chest tightness
- Fever or chills
- Swollen ankles or legs
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Morning headaches or dizziness
- Trouble sleeping due to breathing difficulties
Common Triggers and How to Avoid Them
Understanding what triggers your flare-ups can help you prevent them:
Respiratory Infections
Colds, flu, and other respiratory infections are the most common triggers of COPD exacerbations.
Prevention strategies:
- Get annual flu shots and recommended pneumonia vaccines
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Consider wearing a mask in crowded places during cold and flu season
- Keep surfaces clean and disinfected
Air Pollution and Irritants
Poor air quality can irritate your airways and trigger symptoms.
Prevention strategies:
- Check daily air quality reports and limit outdoor activities when pollution levels are high
- Stay indoors with windows closed on high-pollution or high-pollen days
- Use air conditioning with clean filters during hot weather
- Avoid secondhand smoke and chemical fumes
- Consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter in your home
Weather Changes
Extreme temperatures and sudden weather changes can affect breathing.
Prevention strategies:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a scarf in cold weather
- Use a humidifier in dry conditions
- Stay in climate-controlled environments during extreme weather
- Plan outdoor activities for times when weather conditions are moderate
Stress and Strong Emotions
Stress, anxiety, and even laughter can sometimes trigger breathing difficulties.
Prevention strategies:
- Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule
- Seek support through counseling or support groups
- Consider stress-reduction activities like gentle yoga or tai chi
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Reach out to your healthcare team if you notice:
- Your symptoms are worse than usual for more than 24-48 hours
- Your rescue inhaler isn’t providing relief
- You have a fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
- Your mucus changes color or increases in amount
- You have unusual swelling in your ankles or legs
- You feel confused or very sleepy
Seek emergency care immediately if:
- You have severe shortness of breath or chest pain
- You can’t speak in complete sentences due to breathlessness
- Your lips or fingernails turn blue or gray
- You feel confused or agitated
- Your heart is beating very fast or irregularly
Creating an Emergency Action Plan
Work with your healthcare provider to develop a written plan that outlines:
- Your baseline symptoms: What’s normal for you
- Warning signs: Symptoms that indicate a flare-up
- Action steps: What medications to take and when
- Contact information: Who to call in different situations
- Emergency instructions: When to seek immediate care
Keep this plan where you and others can easily find it. Review and update it regularly with your healthcare provider.
Medications for Managing Flare-ups
Your action plan may include instructions for adjusting medications during a flare-up:
- Rescue inhalers (short-acting bronchodilators) may be used more frequently
- Oral corticosteroidslike prednisone might be prescribed for short-term use
- Antibiotics may be needed if a bacterial infection is suspected
Some people with frequent exacerbations may be given “rescue packs” of medications to keep at home and start promptly when symptoms worsen, following their doctor’s instructions.
Recovery After a Flare-up
After experiencing an exacerbation:
- Continue taking all medications as prescribed
- Gradually return to activities as you feel able
- Follow up with your healthcare provider
- Review what might have triggered the flare-up
- Consider if changes to your action plan are needed
Remember that each flare-up can potentially cause some lasting lung damage, making prevention extremely important.
By recognizing your personal warning signs and triggers, following your treatment plan consistently, and taking quick action when symptoms change, you can reduce the frequency and severity of COPD flare-ups and maintain better control of your condition.
Prepare an emergency contact list and medication list today to keep on hand in case of a COPD flare-up. Being prepared can help you respond quickly and effectively when symptoms worsen.