COPD Flare: What Puts You at Risk?

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This article explores the factors that can increase the risk of a COPD flare, such as sun exposure, environmental factors, and underlying medical conditions.

Fremont, CA: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) symptoms have the potential to deteriorate rapidly. Breathing difficulties may become more pronounced, accompanied by increased coughing, wheezing, and phlegm production. Additionally, individuals may experience heightened anxiety and struggle with sleep and daily activities. This occurrence is referred to as a COPD exacerbation or flare-up.

Some of the things that can raise the risks of a COPD flare may include:

It’s More Than Cigarettes:

Your COPD treatment aims to minimize the frequency of flare-ups or exacerbations. Flare-ups typically occur when symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or increased sputum production worsen gradually throughout 7 to 14 days. Severe flare-ups may require hospitalization. It is important to note that flare-ups can be triggered not only by smoking or air pollution but also by other risk factors. Understanding these risk factors and how to prevent them can help alleviate breathing difficulties.

Frequent Flares:

Flares can have a snowball effect: The frequency of experiencing them can increase the likelihood of having more in the future. (Having three or more flares a year is classified as frequent.) Collaborating with your doctor to identify the root cause of each flare so that this essential treatment can be customized accordingly. Long-acting bronchodilators, in particular, can be beneficial in reducing flares.

Respiratory Infections:

Bacterial and viral infections frequently occur as risk factors for a flare-up. Streptococcus, influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumonia are all responsible, while even a simple cold can worsen your respiratory passages. Take precautionary measures:

- Increase your efforts to prevent exposure to germs.

- Regularly wash your hands and minimize exposure to crowded places, especially during the peak cold and flu season.

- In case of an infection, consult your doctor for proper identification and treatment.

Skipping Key Vaccines:

Failure to receive your flu shot this year can significantly raise your risk of experiencing a flare-up. The same goes for neglecting to get the latest pneumonia vaccine. Research has shown that the flu vaccine can play a role in reducing issues related to COPD, and both vaccines can assist in reducing the likelihood of a flare-up. This is why it is strongly advised to ensure you are up-to-date with these vaccinations if you have COPD. Take action by promptly scheduling any overdue vaccines.

There are some triggering factors that cause the flare of your COPD. Many more factors cause the high risk of COPD. It is vital to build up a healthy lifestyle for less risk.