Sometimes flare-ups, or exacerbations as your doctor may call them, happen despite your best efforts to prevent them. Early treatment of flare-ups can prevent you from becoming seriously ill or having to go to the hospital. This is why it’s so important to know the warning signs of a potential flare-up.

Warning Signs:

• Mucus (phlegm) that is yellow, green or brown
• An increase in the amount, thickness or stickiness of your mucus (phlegm)
• Chest pain
• Fever
• Swollen ankles
• Needing to sleep sitting up instead of lying down
• Morning headaches, dizziness, trouble sleeping, confusion
• Blue lips or fingers
• An unusual increase in shortness of breath
• Feeling sick

If you notice any of these signs call your doctor right away.  Go to the hospital emergency department if you can’t reach your doctor.