What are the steps to manage a COPD flare-up
                     What are the steps to manage a 
COPD flare-up?
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!
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.
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.
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.
                                Thank You