COPD flare-ups happen when a patient’s symptoms suddenly get much worse and cannot be relieved with their regular medications. The most common cause of COPD flare-ups is a respiratory infection. Patients and their healthcare providers can put together an action plan for how to deal with flare-ups. Sometimes, they can be treated at home. In other cases, the flare-up is so severe that it needs to be treated in the hospital.
If the flare-up is caused by a bacterial infection, then it will usually be treated with antibiotics. Rescue inhalers and nebulizer treatments are often used to help relieve severe breathlessness. Sometimes, patients will need to be treated with short-term steroids or oxygen therapy.
The treatment guidelines recommend people with COPD get vaccinated for influenza (flu) and pnuemonia to prevent these common infections that can cause flares of COPD.
[related_posts]
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the site owner or any brands and companies mentioned here. Any content provided by our bloggers or authors are of their opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything. This article is purely for reference purposes and does not constitute professional advice and may not be reflective of the best choice for your unique situation. This site strives to provide as much accurate information as possible; however, sometimes products, prices, and other details are subject to change. Therefore, this site does not verify for the accuracy of the information presented in this article. This site does not assume any liability for any sort of damages arising from your use of this site and any third party content and services.
