Reducing COPD Flare-ups

For people living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), breathing can be very difficult and exacerbations can often lead to hospitalization. While exacerbations can be caused by a number of unknown factors, these flare-ups are often the result of air pollution, infections, smoking and improper use of inhaled medications. The good news is, however, that there are ways to limit flare-ups and improve quality of life.

The following tips on reducing COPD flare-ups have been pulled from “Bee Healthy: Understand COPD to Reduce Flare-ups,” an article by Jessica Jackson, a registered respiratory therapist at Sutter Gould Medical Foundation in Modesto, Calif.

• Learn about the causes of COPD exacerbations.

• Understand and avoid triggers for exacerbation.

• Follow a physician-approved diet and exercise plan.

• Use prescribed medications properly. Understand why you are taking it and how it will improve your symptoms.

• Take time to unwind.

• Quit smoking.

The best way to manage COPD and avoid exacerbations is to understand the disease, as well as the causes of flare-ups. Take the time to educate yourself, or speak with your doctor about any questions you may have. It could be an important step in the betterment of your health.

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