Signs of a COPD Exacerbation

[gerald]

I hope this will be of assistance for anyone who has not come across this information before.
It was something my doctor had never bothered to explain what symptoms signaled a problem. 


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Signs of a COPD Exacerbation

by Brittany Zuckerman | Jul 20, 2015 | COPD, Managing Lung Disease | 0 comments



Knowing the signs of a COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) exacerbation can be crucial in managing COPD. Whether you have COPD or you’re caring for someone with COPD, recognizing the signs of an exacerbation will allow you to seek the necessary treatment to keep the symptoms from worsening or causing more damage to the lungs.

COPD exacerbations can be caused by a number of things such as lung irritants, viral or bacterial infections, extreme temperatures and allergies.

Signs of a COPD exacerbation include:

Shortness of breath, especially if not performing any physical activity
Trouble speaking
Rapid heartbeat
Confusion
Fever
Increase or changes in color of mucus production
Blue-tinged fingers or lips
Inability to get the usual relief from medicine
Noisy breathing, including wheezing or rattling
Anxiety
Difficultly sleeping or eating
Increase in coughing

If you notice any of these symptoms, follow your doctor’s care plan. If your symptoms are severe, getting worse or you don’t have care plan in place, seek immediate medical attention.

www.breathepa.org/2375

[David]

Thanks, I for one have always had trouble understanding what an exacerbation is.

I don't think I have them and if I do then I don't know it.

[hugahusky]

Thanks Gerald. It does not hurt to be reminded of these signs from time to time and also good information for our new members.

[stoker55]

I'm with you on that one David & I try not to think about it. In the beginning I was always so worried that I was going to have one. I had to stop fussing over it but it is good to know what one is as that is how I got diagnosed. I have learned situational awareness of my environment plays a big role in what is going on with my breathing. Thanks for posting that Gerald it is a good reminder.