What to do if I have a COPD flare-up?

Dealing with a COPD flare-up can be challenging, but knowing what to do can make a huge difference. Here's an easy-to-follow guide to help you handle a flare-up and get back to feeling better in no time! If you need extra help with your triggers, we’re here for you. Simply self enroll for medication support, you can also call us at (410) 348-1905 or send us an email. Watch the video below to learn more about Demetria’s story!

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Recognizing a Flare-Up: Know the Signs

First things first: how do you know you’re having a COPD flare-up? Watch out for these symptoms:

1. Breathing gets tougher: If it feels like someone turned up the difficulty on breathing, it might be a flare-up.‍

2. More coughing than usual: Extra coughs or coughing up more mucus than usual are signs to watch.

3. Wheezing: That whistling sound when you breathe in or out? Not a good sign!

4. Feeling more tired: If you’re suddenly exhausted, it could be your body telling you a flare-up is happening.

If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s time to spring into action!

Step 1: Stay Cool, Calm, and Collected 🧘‍♂️

When breathing gets hard, it’s easy to panic—but that only makes things worse. Find a comfy spot to sit, relax your shoulders, and focus on taking slow, deep breaths. Need help calming down? Try pursed-lip breathing: breathe in through your nose, then breathe out slowly through pursed lips, like you’re blowing out candles on a cake.

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Step 2: Take Your Meds as Directed 💊

If your provider has given you a prescription for steroid pills for flare-ups, now’s the time to take them. Steroids help calm down the swelling in your airways, making it easier to breathe. Just follow the instructions, and you’ll be on your way to feeling better. Connect with your Scene nurse if you need help getting your medications.

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Step 3: Stay Hydrated and Keep the Mucus Moving 💧

Drinking water during a flare-up is super important. It helps thin out mucus in your lungs, making it easier to cough up. So grab a glass of water and keep sipping throughout the day! Pro tip: Add some flavor to your water with a squeeze of lemon or a few cucumber slices. It’ll taste better and keep you motivated to drink more!
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Step 4: Grab Your Quick-Relief Inhaler 🚀

If you’ve got a nebulizer at home, this might be the time to use it. Your quick-relief inhaler (like albuterol) is your best friend during a flare-up. Take the number of puffs your doctor recommended.Want to see how it’s done? Connect with your Scene nurse!
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Step 5: Avoid Triggers 🚫

Whatever set off your flare-up—whether it’s smoke, cold air, or strong smells—stay away from it!
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When to Call Your Provider 📞

If you’ve followed all the steps and still feel like you’re struggling to breathe, or if your symptoms keep getting worse, don’t wait—call your provider.. They might need to adjust your treatment or even have you come in for a checkup. Bonus Tip: Work with your provider and your COPD action plan. This plan should include what to do during a flare-up, when to call your doctor, and when to seek emergency care. 

By following these steps and knowing when to reach out for help, you can handle a COPD flare-up with confidence. Keep this guide handy, and remember: you’ve got this!

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