COPD: How To Handle Emergencies

If you have COPD, it’s very important to know when and where to seek help for your emergency symptoms.

You should get emergency care if you have severe symptoms, such as trouble catching your breath or talking.

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Severe COPD Symptoms

Some severe symptoms may require treatment in a hospital. You—with the help of family members or friends, if you’re unable—should seek emergency care if:

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• You’re having a hard time catching your breath or talking.
• Your lips or fingernails turn blue or gray. (This is a sign of a low oxygen level in your blood.)
• You’re not mentally alert.
• Your heartbeat is very fast.
• The recommended treatment for symptoms that are getting worse isn’t working.

Call your doctor if you notice that your symptoms are worsening or if you have signs of an infection, such as a fever. Your doctor may change or adjust your treatments to relieve and treat symptoms.

Keep phone numbers handy for your doctor, hospital, and someone who can take you for medical care. You also should have on hand directions to the doctor’s office and hospital and a list of all the medicines you’re taking.