Exacerbations Or Flare Ups of COPD Are Frequent Among Patients with COPD at Any Stage

Symptoms to look for include; Exacerbations or ‘flare ups’ of COPD are frequent among patients NAME: ………………………………..  Worsening breathlessness with COPD at any stage. The  Cough ADDRESS: ………...... majority of patients report two or  Increased sputum production more a year. An exacerbation is  Changes in sputum colour ……………………………...... described as:  Changes in ability to carry out ……………………………...... daily activities ‘ a sustained worsening of  wheeze ……………………………………………. your symptoms from your The change in these symptoms usual stable state, which is PHONE: ………………………………… usually necessitates a change in beyond normal day to day medication. D.O.B: …………………………………… variations’ Action to be taken NHS No: ……………………………….. It is important that you know what is  Increase your blue inhaler to: ‘normal’ for you, only then, will you know if your symptoms have Contact …………………………………………. changed Use your spacer to ensure ……………………………………………. Prompt treatment is important. maximum effect.

 If you have ‘standby 01462 427125 medication’ at home start taking them at the dose agreed by you GP, Consultant is correct and that you are on or Respiratory practitioner YOU MUST SEE YOUR GP the most appropriate treatment OR GO TO HOSPITAL Antibiotic: Some triggers that can cause Other useful numbers an exacerbation include ………………………………  The British Lung foundation  Weather changes – e.g. cold ‘help line’ number is - 03000 ………………………………… spells, muggy or close. Check 030 555 it is open 10.00am - the weather pages on the 6.00pm daily and a trained Steroids: TV/internet to help you plan nurse will be able to answer your days any questions relating to your ……………………………………  Viral epidemics – in particular lung health winter influenza epidemics  ‘Breathe Easy’ is a support ……………………………………  Exposure to a smoky group for people with lung environment disease that is supported by CONTACT 01462 427125  High pollen levels the British lung foundation. ON STARTING YOUR You can contact them on the How to prevent exacerbations number above and they will STANDBY MEDICATION advise you of your nearest group If you do not have standby  Stop smoking (if applicable)  Hertfordshire stop smoking  Keep as fit and active as medication, and increasing your services – 0800 389 3 998 blue inhaler does not improve possible symptoms  ensure you have the flu jab each year and a ‘one off’ OR pneumovax If there is no improvement  See your Practice or within 48 hours of starting your Respiratory Nurse regularly to standby medication ensure your inhaler technique