People with COPD occasionally experience exacerbations (flare-ups) of their COPD. Exacerbations are moments when the symptoms of COPD get much more severe, sometimes taking several weeks to recover. COPD exacerbations can come about after you come into contact with air pollutants or other lung infections (such as a cold or flu virus), and can often lead to hospitalization.

During an exacerbation lung airways become increasingly more inflamed, blocking airflow beyond normal day-to-day variations. The main symptom of an exacerbation is increased breathlessness, but it can also be accompanied by:

-Increased wheezing
-Chest tightness
-Increased cough
-Increased sputum, with a change in color.
-Other complaints such as tiredness, headaches, malaise and sleepiness

Treatment of COPD exacerbations typically includes oxygen therapy, use of bronchodilators (medications that help relax inflamed airways), oral corticosteroids, and other respiratory support to help you breath. Noticing the signs of a possible exacerbation and contacting medical help can prevent hospitaliziation or other serious illnesses or injury.