What are the early warning signs of a COPD exacerbation. How can you recognize when emergency care is needed for COPD flare-ups. What strategies can help prevent COPD exacerbations and improve overall management.

Understanding COPD Exacerbations: Causes and Symptoms

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition that can lead to sudden worsening of symptoms, known as exacerbations or flare-ups. These episodes can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life and may even require hospitalization if severe.

Exacerbations are often triggered by respiratory infections, exposure to air pollutants, or other environmental factors. Recognizing the signs of an impending flare-up is crucial for timely intervention and management.

Common Triggers of COPD Exacerbations

• Viral or bacterial respiratory infections
• Exposure to air pollution or irritants
• Sudden changes in weather
• Stress or anxiety
• Discontinuation of prescribed medications

Early Warning Signs of COPD Flare-Ups

Identifying the early signs of a COPD exacerbation can help patients seek timely medical attention and potentially avoid more severe complications. What are the key indicators that a flare-up may be imminent?

• Increased shortness of breath, even during rest
• Changes in breathing patterns or sounds
• Worsening cough, often with increased mucus production
• Changes in skin or nail color
• Difficulty sleeping or eating
• Early morning headaches
• Swelling in ankles, legs, or abdomen
• Fever

Patients experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider promptly for guidance and potential treatment adjustments.

Recognizing Severe COPD Exacerbations: When to Seek Emergency Care

While many COPD flare-ups can be managed at home with proper medical guidance, some situations require immediate emergency attention. How can patients and caregivers recognize when a COPD exacerbation has become life-threatening?

Emergency symptoms that warrant calling 911 include:

• Severe chest pain
• Blue discoloration of lips or fingertips (cyanosis)
• Confusion or disorientation
• Extreme shortness of breath preventing speech

These symptoms indicate a potentially severe exacerbation that requires immediate medical intervention to prevent life-threatening complications.

Strategies for Preventing COPD Exacerbations

While it may not be possible to prevent all COPD flare-ups, there are several strategies patients can employ to reduce their frequency and severity. What proactive measures can individuals with COPD take to minimize the risk of exacerbations?

1. Adhere to prescribed medication regimens
2. Practice good hygiene to prevent infections
3. Avoid exposure to air pollutants and irritants
4. Stay up-to-date with vaccinations, including flu and pneumonia shots
5. Engage in regular physical activity as recommended by a healthcare provider
6. Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated
7. Manage stress through relaxation techniques or counseling
8. Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke

Implementing these strategies can significantly improve overall COPD management and reduce the likelihood of exacerbations.

The Importance of Self-Awareness in COPD Management

Self-awareness plays a crucial role in effectively managing COPD and identifying potential exacerbations early. How can patients develop a better understanding of their condition and its day-to-day fluctuations?

Patients should pay close attention to their typical symptoms and breathing patterns, noting any changes that may indicate the onset of a flare-up. Keeping a symptom diary or using a mobile app to track daily symptoms can help identify trends and potential triggers.

Regular communication with healthcare providers about changes in symptoms or concerns is essential for optimal COPD management. Patients should feel empowered to reach out to their medical team when they notice any worrisome changes in their condition.

The Role of Comprehensive Care Management in COPD

Recent studies have highlighted the potential benefits of comprehensive care management programs for COPD patients. These programs involve a coordinated team approach to patient care, which may include primary care physicians, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and equipment providers.

How can comprehensive care management programs improve outcomes for COPD patients? These programs aim to:

• Provide personalized treatment plans
• Offer ongoing education and support
• Facilitate better communication between healthcare providers
• Improve medication adherence
• Reduce hospital readmissions

Patients with COPD may benefit from discussing the possibility of participating in such programs with their healthcare providers to determine if this approach is suitable for their individual needs.

Addressing Mental Health in COPD Management

The relationship between mental health and COPD exacerbations is increasingly recognized as an important aspect of disease management. How do anxiety and depression impact COPD, and why is it crucial to address these issues?

Studies have shown that stress, anxiety, and depression can weaken the immune system and potentially trigger COPD flare-ups. Moreover, these mental health concerns may lead to increased hospital admissions and poorer overall health outcomes.

Patients with COPD should be aware of potential signs of anxiety or depression, such as:

• Persistent worry or fear
• Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Changes in sleep patterns or appetite
• Difficulty concentrating

It’s essential for patients to discuss any mental health concerns with their healthcare providers. Treatment options may include counseling, stress management techniques, or medication when appropriate.

Innovative Approaches to COPD Exacerbation Management

As research in COPD management continues to evolve, new approaches to treating exacerbations are being explored. What innovative strategies are being developed to improve outcomes for patients experiencing COPD flare-ups?

One emerging approach is the use of in-home care supervised by respiratory nurses with support from hospital teams. This model aims to provide more personalized care while potentially reducing the need for hospital admissions.

Other innovative approaches being studied include:

• Telemedicine consultations for early intervention
• Wearable devices for continuous symptom monitoring
• Personalized action plans based on individual patient data
• Novel drug delivery systems for more effective medication administration

While these approaches are still being evaluated, they represent promising avenues for improving COPD exacerbation management in the future.

In conclusion, understanding the signs and symptoms of COPD exacerbations, knowing when to seek emergency care, and implementing strategies to prevent flare-ups are crucial aspects of effective COPD management. By staying informed, maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, and adopting a proactive approach to their health, patients with COPD can significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the impact of exacerbations on their overall well-being.

Signs of a COPD Exacerbation

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Early Warning Signs of a Flare-Up
• When to Get Emergency Care
• How to Avoid Flare-Ups

When you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, your usual symptoms might become worse rather quickly — or you may even get new ones.

You may hear your doctor or nurse call this an “exacerbation.” Think of it as a flare-up. During one of these bouts, you may suddenly have more trouble breathing or make more noise when you do.

These flare-ups are often linked to a lung infection caused by a virus or bacteria, such as a cold or some other illness. Smoggy or dirty air can also make your symptoms get worse in a hurry.

It’s important to know the warning signs that a flare-up is coming on so that you can avoid it if possible. These exacerbations can cause your COPD to get worse.

An acute exacerbation — those symptoms that put you in the “red zone,” like fever, shaking chills, confusion, chest pain, and coughing up blood — can land you in the hospital. That’s more likely when you’ve had at least three flare-ups in the past year or you have severe COPD (even without a flare-up).

Self-awareness is important with COPD flare-ups. Only you can know how you feel on a typical day: how your breathing feels and how much you cough. Pay close attention when things change.

One obvious sign of an oncoming flare-up is shortness of breath. You feel like you can’t get enough air. You might notice it during light physical activity or even when you are at rest.

Other things you should watch out for:

• Noisy breathing. Your breath makes strange noises. Wheezing suggests mucus or pus is blocking your airways. Gurgling or rattling could mean fluid in your lungs.
• Irregular breathing. You feel like you have to use your chest muscles to breathe instead of your diaphragm. Your breathing becomes uneven. Sometimes, your chest moves a lot faster; sometimes, it’s much slower.
• Worse coughing. It’s more severe, or you cough more often than usual. It could be dry or bring up yellow, green, or bloody phlegm. It gets worse when you lie down — so much that you may have to sit in a chair to sleep.
• Changes in skin or nail color. You see a bluish tint around your lips or notice that your nails seem blue or purple. Your skin looks yellow or gray.
• Trouble sleeping and eating. You can’t get to sleep, and you don’t feel like eating.
• You can’t talk. You’re unable to get any words out. You have to use hand gestures to let someone know something is wrong with you. This is a late and dangerous sign of worsening breathing.
• Early-morning headaches. You start the day with a throbbing head because of a buildup of carbon dioxide in your blood.
• Swollen ankles or legs, or belly pain. These symptoms are linked to problems with your heart or lungs.
• Fever. A higher temperature could be a sign of infection and an oncoming flare-up.

You should call your doctor right away if you or a loved one with COPD is showing symptoms of a flare-up.

Sometimes, your flare-up could start to become severe. You might not have enough time to wait for a visit to your doctor’s office. Call 911 if you have these symptoms:

• Chest pain
• Blue lips or fingers
• You’re confused 
• You’re so short of breath, you can’t talk

Severe COPD flare-ups can be life-threatening, so fast action is important with these symptoms.

Of course, the best thing that can happen is to avoid as many flare-ups as possible in the first place. Here are some tips that may help you limit COPD flares.

Call your doctor

Talk to your doctor if you have any of the early warning signs listed above. These can signal that you’re about to have an exacerbation or are already having one. Maybe you try to tough it out when you get sick. Or you rarely call the doctor because you “hate to be a bother.”

You’ll need to break out of those mindsets. A flare-up of COPD isn’t something you should wait to run its course. A prescription for medicine, such as antibiotics or steroids, may help you get better at home instead of in the hospital.

Different ways of treating mild exacerbations are also being tried, like in-home care supervised by a respiratory nurse with help from a hospital team. Studies of comprehensive care management programs, involving a coordinated team that may include people like your doctor, your respiratory therapist, and an equipment provider, suggest that this approach may help prevent hospital readmissions.

Keep a positive attitude

Hundreds of studies link stress with a weakened immune system, and when you have COPD, that could mean flare-ups and trips to the hospital. Anxiety and depression can lead to flares and hospital stays, too. What’s worse is that you may not realize you’re dealing with these mental health concerns, because they seem normal to you.

Let your doctor know if you:

• Worry most days
• Are restless and easily irritated
• Often feel sad or hopeless, and that affects your daily life

Medication and different types of therapy can treat mental health issues, which may improve your chances of staying out of the hospital.

A sunnier outlook and feeling good about yourself can help you stay on track with the things you need to do to take care of your COPD. Simple practices can foster a sense of peacefulness and lift your spirits:

• Listen to soothing or cheerful music.
• Watch a funny movie.
• Turn off the news.
• Avoid people or conversations that upset you.
• Meditate or use guided imagery.
• Do gentle yoga or tai chi.

Up your air quality

The most common cause of a COPD flare-up is poor air quality, indoor and out. So clean up your air.

Start by removing clutter, which attracts dust mites. Get your air conditioner inspected for mold and mildew. Consider using an air filter. Avoid fumes from cleaning products, perfumes, and paint, which may trigger flare-ups. Stay away from tobacco smoke and pet dander.

Here are some other tips to keep COPD flare-ups at bay:

• Keep regular appointments with your doctor, even if you’re feeling fine at the time.
• Get your flu shot every year, and stay away from crowds during cold and flu season. Pharmacies and grocery stores often offer these shots for free at the start of flu season.
• Try to build in more exercise.
• Ask your doctor whether you are due for a pneumonia and pertussis shot.
• Make sure you’re using your medications, including oxygen and your inhaler, correctly. Ask your doctor for a refresher about when and how they work their best.
• Tell your doctor if you have trouble paying for any treatment or are bothered by side effects.
• Wash your hands often with warm water and mild soap.
• Use hand sanitizer when you can’t wash your hands.
• Use your own pen at the doctor’s office.
• Drink enough water to stay hydrated.
• Take sleep time seriously. When your body is tired, you’re more likely to get sick.

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COPD Flare-Ups: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, Prevention

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Medically Reviewed by Paul Boyce, MD on March 18, 2021

• Signs of a COPD Flare-up
• What to Do When Flare-ups Happen
• Signs of an Emergency
• Flare-up Triggers
• Tips to Prevent Flare-Ups
• Have a Plan
• More

If you’re living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, you can control it with the help of the right kind of food, exercise, and plenty of sleep. No matter how careful you are, though, your COPD may act up from time to time.

When you have a flare-up like this, you may hear a doctor or nurse call this an “exacerbation.”

A flare-up can make you feel sick. A bad one could put you in the hospital and might make your COPD more severe. So the fewer you have, the better.

Awareness is key with COPD flare-ups. You know how you feel on a typical day with your breathing and how much you cough.

If you get an infection in your lungs or if something else irritates them — secondhand smoke, for instance — you might be headed for a flare-up.

You might be more short of breath or wheeze and cough more than you usually do. Other symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Scratchy throat or other signs of a cold
• Coughing up more mucus than usual, or it turns green, tan, or bloody
• Swollen ankles
• Confusion
• Unusual sleepiness

Ideally, your doctor has given you instructions for what to do, and has set you up with an inhaler and a rescue pack of drugs. If so, follow the instructions.

Here are some tips to help you judge how severe your flare-up is and what action to take:

• Mild — You’re more breathless than you usually are, but you aren’t coughing up any more than usual. In this case, use your inhaler.
• Moderate — The inhaler isn’t helping, or you’re coughing up more than usual. Take your rescue-pack medicine and call your doctor.
• Severe — You keep getting worse despite the medicine, or you have a fever. Call your doctor’s office at once. If you can’t wait for the doctor, call 911.

Some flare-ups are so serious that you should call 911 right away. Here are some signs of this:

• You have chest pains.
• Your lips or fingers turn blue.
• You’re very short of breath.
• You can’t think clearly, or you’re upset.
• You’re drowsy.

These are some of the things that can make your COPD worse and spark a flare-up:

• Smog and other kinds of air pollution
• Cigarette or cigar smoke
• Strong fumes from perfume and other scented products
• Cold air or hot, humid air
• Ragweed and other pollens that trigger allergies

Because infections or other triggers that irritate your lungs generally cause flare-ups, you need to protect yourself against things like that.

Start with your lifestyle, because a healthier body has the best chance to fight off germs. Eat nutritious food. Exercise. Get plenty of sleep. Also:

• Wash your hands often. They pick up germs from things you touch. Try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, because that can help germs get into your body.
• Get a flu shot every year. Also, ask your doctor about a shot to protect against pneumonia.
• Carry your own pen with you. That way, if you need to fill out paperwork at the doctor’s office or other places, you won’t handle the same pen as other people.
• Show up for all of your medical appointments. Do that even if you feel OK.
• Stay away from crowds when you can. That’s especially important during cold and flu season.
• Try to avoid perfumes or the odors of household cleaning products. Buy unscented products whenever you can.
• Avoid secondhand smoke. And if you smoke — the cause behind many cases of COPD — ask your doctor for help in quitting.
• Be careful outdoors. If cold air bothers you, pull up your scarf around your mouth and nose, and breathe through your nose. During hot, humid weather, stay inside with air conditioning.

No matter how careful you are, your COPD may act up sooner or later. Be prepared. Ask your doctor to help you work out an action plan to guide you.

Your plan should fit what you personally need, and will depend on what symptoms you have. To get an idea of what it might look like, you can see a blank form for a plan on the Canadian Lung Association website, in the sections that covers COPD. You plan should spell out things such as:

• What your special flare-up medicine is and when to use it
• If you have an inhaler or oxygen, when to use it or use it more
• How you’ll know it’s time to call the doctor or call 911

Remember, when you start feeling bad, you have to take it seriously.

Flare-ups are a leading cause of disability in people with COPD. But if you take the right precautions, you can go on about your business.

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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD, chronic obstructive bronchitis)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD, chronic obstructive bronchitis) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the small bronchi and lungs, in which, along with narrowing of the bronchial lumen, emphysema develops (reduction of lung elasticity and destruction of their respiratory units – alveoli). With COPD, the lungs are constantly in a state of inhalation (there is always a lot of air in them, even during exhalation), as a result of which gas exchange is disturbed and little oxygen enters the blood.

Main cause COPD – smoking. Among other factors that can cause COPD , occupational hazards (smoke, dust), car exhaust should be noted.

COPD is a steadily progressive disease that eventually leads to a reduction in the area of ​​the alveoli and, consequently, to a decrease in the supply of oxygen to the blood (respiratory failure). To ensure sufficient oxygen supply to the blood, the load on the vessels of the lungs will increase, which will ultimately lead to disruption of the heart (chronic cor pulmonale).

Symptoms

For COPD , as well as for chronic bronchitis, a cough with a small amount of light or yellowish sputum is characteristic, mainly in the morning. Over time, as structural changes in the bronchi and lungs increase, shortness of breath appears with difficulty exhaling, which first occurs during intense physical exertion, then gradually increases and significantly limits daily activity. Gradually, general weakness, increased fatigue join, at advanced stages of the disease (when the work of the heart is disturbed), swelling of the legs, heaviness and discomfort in the right side may occur.

COPD is characterized by a progressive course with exacerbations that usually occur during the cold season, most often after acute respiratory viral infections. With an exacerbation, all manifestations of the disease intensify.

Diagnosis

To clarify the diagnosis and determine the tactics of treatment, it is obligatory to conduct a study of the function of external respiration ( spirometry ). This study helps determine how deeply and quickly the patient can exhale and inhale.

In case of exacerbations COPD complete blood count with evaluation of leukocyte formula, ESR, C-reactive protein level, general sputum analysis, bacteriological examination of sputum with determination of sensitivity to antibiotics, and to rule out pneumonia – chest X-ray.

Other studies (chest computed tomography, bronchoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy) are performed only in cases where there is doubt about the diagnosis.

Treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Quitting smoking is of fundamental importance – the leading factor in the progression of structural changes in the bronchi. Cessation of smoking, unfortunately, does not lead to a complete restoration of the bronchial tree, however, it helps to prevent further deterioration of the condition.

Depending on the stage COPD (i.e. the degree of bronchial constriction) as determined by spirometry , prescribe the regular use of bronchodilators that eliminate spasm of the muscles of the bronchi and facilitate breathing. There are many drugs in this group. In most cases, they are produced in the form of metered-dose aerosol inhalers, as well as powder inhalers. Bronchodilator drugs can be short-acting or long-acting. Short-acting drugs are taken as needed (with increased dyspnea) or regularly 3-4 times a day in order to prevent increased dyspnea. Long-acting drugs are taken 1-2 times a day, their effect lasts for 12-24 hours. In severe cases of the disease, inhaled glucocorticoids are used, which effectively suppress inflammation in the bronchi and reduce the frequency of exacerbations COPD . Since glucocorticoids are used in the form of inhalations, only a small part of the drug enters the blood, therefore, adverse drug reactions rarely occur.

“Immunity boosting” should not be done with drugs or numerous advertised nutritional supplements. Patients with COPD are shown to be vaccinated with influenza and pneumococcal vaccines.
Physical exercise is indicated to improve exercise tolerance and reduce breathlessness. Self-study can start with a daily walk for 20 minutes, gymnastics with light dumbbells. The intensity of the loads should be increased gradually, in no case should you bring yourself to severe shortness of breath. To reduce shortness of breath during exercise, you can use inhaled bronchodilators before it starts. In all cases, before starting physical training, you should consult a doctor.

Treatment of exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

A slightly different treatment is necessary for exacerbations of COPD , in which shortness of breath, cough increase significantly, sputum discharge increases, body temperature rises.

In this case, it is necessary to drink plenty of fluids (unless there are serious contraindications – a significant increase in blood pressure, severe heart or kidney failure), which contributes to an increase in the amount of sputum and its dilution. On the recommendation of a doctor, expectorants can be used. The basis of the treatment of exacerbations COPD also constitutes bronchodilatory therapy, with a pronounced exacerbation, the use of a nebulizer is justified – an apparatus that creates the smallest particles of drugs (in the form of steam), so that they enter the smaller bronchi. In severe exacerbations, the doctor may also prescribe glucocorticoid tablets in a short course (10 days). The decision to prescribe an antibiotic is made only by the attending physician on an individual basis (for example, if the exacerbation is caused by inhalation of an irritant, antibiotics are not indicated).

• It is necessary to observe the home regimen, in no case should you endure an exacerbation “on your feet”.
• Plentiful warm drink (if there are no serious contraindications – a significant increase in blood pressure, severe heart or kidney failure) will not only help in the fight against intoxication, but also improve sputum discharge and its thinning. On the recommendation of a doctor, expectorants can be used.
• The basis of the treatment of exacerbation of COPD is also bronchodilator therapy, with a pronounced exacerbation, the use of a nebulizer is justified – an apparatus that creates the smallest particles of drugs (in the form of steam), so that they enter smaller bronchi.
• For severe exacerbations, the doctor may also prescribe glucocorticoid tablets in a short course (10 days).
• The decision to prescribe an antibiotic is made by the attending physician on an individual basis (for example, if the exacerbation is caused by inhalation of an irritant, antibiotics are not indicated).

The material was prepared with the participation of a specialist:

• Anna Viktorovna Smitienko

  General practitioner, pulmonologist

  Candidate of Medical Sciences

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Dolgoderevenskoye

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive and eventually debilitating lung disease, which means that the condition worsens over time. The disease usually causes coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, making it difficult to breathe. According to the National Institutes of Health, COPD is the third leading cause of death. COPD is most common in people over 40 and who have a history of smoking. Various factors can contribute to the development of COPD, including long-term exposure to air pollutants and dust. However, cigarette smoking is the main cause of the disease. In fact, smoking causes about 90% of COPD cases.

COPD: Causes of the disease

COPD is most often caused by smoking. Most people are long-term smokers and studies show that cigarette smoking increases the risk of disease.
COPD is often a combination of two diseases: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Both of these diseases are caused by smoking. Although you may have a mixture of both conditions.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a long-term lung disease. It consists of two diseases: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Long-term coughing is often a symptom of COPD. There are other symptoms that can occur as lung damage progresses.
Many of these symptoms may also develop slowly. More complex symptoms appear when significant lung damage has already occurred. Symptoms can also be episodic and vary in intensity. If you have COPD or are wondering if you have the condition, learn about the symptoms and talk to your doctor.
Main symptom
Cough is often the first symptom of COPD. According to the Mayo Clinic, chronic bronchitis associated with COPD is diagnosed if your cough persists for three months or more in a year, for at least two years. Cough can occur every day, even if there are no other symptoms of the disease.
Coughing is how the body clears mucus and clears other irritants such as dust or pollen and secretions from the airways and lungs. Usually people cough up clear mucus, but often it is yellow in people with COPD. The cough is usually worse in the early morning and you may cough more when you are physically active or when you smoke.
Other common symptoms of COPD
As COPD progresses, you may experience symptoms other than cough. They can occur in the early and middle stages of the disease.
Wheezing
When you exhale and push air through narrow or obstructed air passages in your lungs, you may hear a whistling or musical sound called wheezing. People with COPD are most likely to develop excess mucus that obstructs their airways. This is due to muscle tightening, which further narrows the airways.
Sweeping can also be a symptom of asthma or pneumonia. Some people with COPD may also have a condition that includes symptoms of both COPD and asthma.
Shortness of breath
As the airways in the lungs become swollen (inflamed) and damaged, they may begin to narrow. You may find it harder to breathe or catch your breath. This symptom of COPD is most noticeable with increased physical activity. This can make even daily tasks difficult, including:
• Walking
• Simple household chores
• Bathing
In the worst case, this can even happen while relaxing.

Fatigue

You often cannot get enough oxygen to your blood and muscles if you have difficulty breathing. Your body slows down and fatigue sets in without the necessary oxygen. You may also feel tired because your lungs are working too hard to get oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Frequent respiratory infections

People with COPD have less robust immune systems. COPD also makes it difficult to clear light pollutants, dust, and other irritants. When this happens, people with COPD are at greater risk of lung infections such as colds, flu, and pneumonia. It can be difficult to avoid infections, but practicing good handwashing and getting the right vaccinations can reduce the risk.
What are the serious complications associated with COPD?

For people living with COPD, every breath can be difficult. People with COPD may be at risk for serious complications that can not only put their health at risk, but can also be fatal. Here are a few of these complications, as well as some tips for preventing them.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia occurs when bacteria or viruses enter the lungs, creating an infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, bacterial pneumonia is the most common form of pneumonia. It is ranked evenly with the flu as the eighth leading cause of death. The disease is especially dangerous for people with a weakened lung system, such as those with COPD. For these people, pneumonia can further damage the lungs. This can lead to a chain reaction of diseases that can further weaken the lungs. This downward spiral can lead to a rapid deterioration in the health of people with COPD.

In general, good health is key to preventing infections in people with COPD. Here are some tips to reduce your risk of infection:
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to keep your bronchioles healthy by thinning out mucus and secretions.
• Stop or avoid smoking to maintain a healthy immune system and lung health.
• Wash your hands consistently.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Prevent sick friends and relatives from visiting your home.
• Get pneumonia vaccines and a yearly flu vaccine.

Chronic heart failure

One of the most important complications of COPD is heart failure. Because people with COPD have lower levels of oxygen in their blood, their heart often suffers. According to the American Thoracic Society, this can lead to severe pulmonary hypertension in a small percentage of patients (less than 10%). For many patients, treating COPD can help prevent the disease from progressing to the point of causing heart failure. Unfortunately, because many of the symptoms of heart failure can be the same as those of COPD, it can be difficult for patients to realize they are having heart problems until it is too late.

Lung cancer

Since COPD can often be attributed to smoking, it is not surprising that people with COPD often develop lung cancer. However, researchers have actually identified a link between COPD and lung cancer that is separate from a person’s history of smoking. This is most likely due to chronic inflammation in the lungs. Genetics may also play a role. Since lung cancer is often fatal, it is important that people with COPD remove factors that further damage the lungs, especially smoking.

Diabetes

COPD does not cause diabetes, but it can make it harder to manage the difficult symptoms of diabetes. One significant complication associated with both COPD and diabetes is the harmful interaction of COPD and diabetic drugs. People with diabetes and COPD may find that their symptoms have gotten worse because diabetes can also limit their cardiovascular system. Smoking can make both diabetes and COPD symptoms worse. It is extremely important to stop smoking as soon as possible. Learning to manage blood sugar levels, usually with the help of your doctor, can help keep COPD symptoms from becoming overwhelming. Uncontrolled diabetes, which causes persistently high blood sugar levels, can decrease lung function. Work with your doctor to make sure the medications they prescribe will work together to treat both conditions. This can help you manage these two conditions right away.

Dementia

The gradual mental decline in many severe COPD patients can be hard on loved ones. Dementia is especially common in patients older than COPD, making symptom management difficult. COPD is its own risk factor for dementia. Conditions such as low oxygen, high carbon dioxide, and damage to blood vessels in the brain due to smoking play a role in dementia in COPD.
Respiratory failure is the most common cause of death from COPD. After months, years, or even decades of struggling with lung problems, the patient’s lungs stop working. Heart failure is also a factor in COPD mortality, with COPD often contributing to heart problems.
Treatment options

Although there is no known cure for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), treatment can help relieve your symptoms and slow it down. The main goals of COPD treatment are:
• Feel better
• Improve quality of life
• Help you stay active
• Prevent and treat complications
• Improve overall quality of life
Change lifestyle

9 0002 Stop smoking

The first and most important thing you need to do is to stop smoking or not start if you don’t already smoke. You must also reduce air pollution in your environment as much as possible. Avoid secondhand smoke and stay away from dust, fumes and other toxic substances that you can inhale.
Diet and exercise
It is also important to eat healthy food. The fatigue and difficulty breathing that comes with COPD can make drinking difficult. Eat less food, but more often. Your doctor may suggest nutritional supplements. It may also be helpful to rest before eating.
Exercise is important, but for some it can be difficult. Physical activity can strengthen the muscles that help you breathe. Talk to your doctor about physical activities that are right for you. Pulmonary rehabilitation can also be a way to increase endurance and help with breathing problems, so talk to your doctor about your options.
Smoking cessation drugs
Quitting smoking can improve your health and quality of life, with or without COPD. Since nicotine is highly addictive, many physicians offer nicotine replacement therapy to patients to relieve their cravings for cigarettes. Recommended nicotine replacement treatments come in the form of gums, patches, and inhalers.
Some antidepressants have been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate smoking, but you should be aware of the side effects. If your doctor prescribes medication, be sure to ask what to expect

COPD: When to seek help?

Call your doctor or other emergency services now if:
• Your breathing stops.
• Moderate to severe difficulty breathing. This means that the person may have trouble speaking at full volume or breathing during class.
• Severe chest pain, or chest pain that gets worse quickly.
• You are coughing up large amounts of bright red blood.
Seek immediate medical attention or go to the emergency room if you have been diagnosed with COPD and:
• Cough up a couple tablespoons of blood.
• You have shortness of breath or wheezing that gets worse quickly.
• Chest pains reappeared.
• The cough is deeper or more frequent, especially if you notice an increase in mucus (phlegm) or a change in the color of the mucus.
• Increased swelling in the legs or abdomen.
• You have a high fever (38.3 °C)
• Flu-like symptoms are developing.
Call your doctor soon if:
• Your medicine is not working as well as it used to.
• Your symptoms are gradually getting worse and you have not seen a doctor for a long time.
• You have a cold and:
o Your fever lasts longer than 2-3 days.