Exacerbation

Exacerbation of COPD occurs when the symptoms worsen suddenly. The symptoms of exacerbation are worsening of shortness of breath, coughing and mucus production, reduced oxygen levels and increased fatigue. They are often caused by lung infection although in some cases the cause remains unknown. Exacerbations cause the airways to narrow thereby leading to inflammation due to stagnation of mucous in the lungs. Exacerbations can be very serious and can lead to hospitalisation and even death. The treatments currently available for COPD aim to prevent exacerbations and disease progression.