Throughout the year, if you have COPD, there may be times when your respiratory symptoms become worse than usual. In some cases, you might need to go to the hospital. These are known as exacerbations or flare-ups, and they are quite common during COPD.
So, what exactly are exacerbations? According to specialists, exacerbations occur when you notice a worsening of symptoms such as difficulty breathing (dyspnea), coughing, and mucus production over a few days.
These issues may also be accompanied by:
In most cases, COPD exacerbations are linked to an inflammatory state, both locally in the lungs and systemically throughout the body.
The duration of an exacerbation can vary from person to person and depends on the severity. Generally, exacerbations last from 4 to 6 weeks. Unfortunately, returning to the condition before the exacerbation is not always possible.
Not all exacerbations are the same.
They are classified based on the severity of symptoms and on the presence of worsening oxygen levels and/or respiratory infections at the same time. The severity of the exacerbation determines the recommended treatment, which may include hospitalisation and medical care if there is acute respiratory failure.
In most cases, exacerbations are triggered by specific factors that provoke them.
The most common triggers for COPD exacerbations include:
– Respiratory infections, which can be either viral, bacterial (or a combination of both)
– Environmental factors, such as air pollutants
The main goal of COPD treatment is to prevent exacerbations.
That’s why it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and recommendations closely.
There are also some other simple steps you can take to lower the chances of having future exacerbations:
Quit smoking
Smoking is one of the main risk factors for COPD and can also worsen symptoms for those already affected by the condition.
Engage in regular physical activity
Consult your doctor about which types of exercise are best for you, and try to stay active. If you stop exercising, your muscles can weaken, making it harder to breathe. On the other hand, regular physical activity can help you stay healthy and prevent exacerbations.
Consider pulmonary rehabilitation, which includes tailored exercises specifically designed for people with COPD.
Follow a healthy diet
Eating well is essential for staying healthy, especially if you have COPD. If you’re underweight or overweight, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor and a nutrition professional.
They can help you create a personalised diet plan to improve your health.
Get recommended vaccinations
Preventing infections is essential for protecting your lung health and lowering the risk of exacerbations, so make sure to get the vaccinations your doctor recommends.
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