COPD is a long-term health problem that causes breathlessness and a decrease in respiratory functioning. The condition is life-threatening and develops when one experiences obstruction in the airflow due to damage or collapse of alveoli or air sacs.

1. What are the steps to manage a
COPD flare-up?

2. COPD is a long-term health problem that causes breathlessness and a
decrease in respiratory functioning. The condition is life-threatening and
develops when one experiences obstruction in the airflow due to damage or
collapse of alveoli or air sacs. The chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
causes are smoking, breathing chemically-rich or dirty air, and inhaling
second-hand smoke. When patients with this problem experience signs like
coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing, it may indicate COPD
exacerbation or flare-up. This can be frightening and uncomfortable. Thus, it
is essential for people with the condition to learn how to manage COPD flare-
ups. Here is all you need to know!

3. How to manage COPD flare-ups?
If you are going through a COPD flare-up, you should look at the COPD action
plan your doctor worked out for you. He must have outlined the specific
actions and doses to manage the flare-up.
Use a quick-acting inhaler:
Relief or rescue inhalers help improve the condition by sending a powerful
stream of meds straight to constricted lungs. The inhaler relaxes the tissues in
the airway, making it easier to take in oxygen. Anticholinergics and beta2-
agonists are two common types of inhalers recommended for COPD patients.
You can add to their efficiency by using them with a spacer or nebulizer.
2. Try an oxygen tank:
Doctors advise many COPD patients to use supplemental oxygen at home. It
may prove more helpful if you are experiencing a flare. When inhaling oxygen,
follow the COPD action plan advised by your doctor. Try relaxing and
controlling your inhalation process when breathing in.

4. 3. Take oral corticosteroids:
The corticosteroids help control the COPD flare-up. They reduce the swelling
and widen the airways to let more oxygen inside the lungs. You may ask your
doctor to prescribe them to you if they are not already included in your
treatment plan. He may recommend you take them for a week or more after
the fare-up to keep the inflammation under control.

5. 4. Switch to mechanical intervention:
If the flare-up is severe, it is possible that oral corticosteroids, oxygen, and
inhaler might not improve your condition. They may fail to bring the
symptoms back to normal. In this case, a machine called a mechanical
ventilator might be recommended to help you breathe.
So, to improve your condition, using a quick inhaler, trying an oxygen tank,
and taking oral corticosteroids are some solutions. However, if none of these
work, you may want to reach out for help. You can consider getting admitted
to a hospital to make things better for you.

6. Thank You