What Is a COPD Exacerbation Flare, and What Are Its Symptoms?
A chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation flare is an increase in the usual severity of symptoms of COPD. The signs of a flare-up are a worsening of whatever the person’s usual COPD symptoms are. These may include: • An increase in frequency and severity of coughing. • Increased production of phlegm (sputum or mucus) when coughing. • A change in the appearance of the phlegm. • Increased shortness of breath. One should always seek prompt medical evaluation for signs of a COPD exacerbation flare. Without treatment, people may experience life-threatening breathing problems. If someone with COPD seems extremely short of breath or passes out, call 911 right away. Some COPD exacerbations require treatment in the hospital for a few days, while others can be safely treated in an outpatient setting. In severe cases, people with COPD exacerbations may need to be on a ventilator, or breathing machine, until their flare-up resolves. More than half of exacerbation flares are cause
