Treatment of COPD exacerbations. Pharmacologic options and modification of risk factors.
Exacerbations of COPD are a major source of morbidity and mortality, resulting in tremendous increases in healthcare costs. Spirometric testing of at-risk persons can help identify patients early in the disease course who may benefit from early intervention to slow the disease process. Avoidance of irritants, smoking cessation, and use of pharmacologic agents aimed at decreasing airflow obstruction are strategies for reducing the frequency and severity of exacerbations. Patients should be educated about modifiable risk factors, such as cigarette smoking, environmental exposures, improper inhaler technique, influenza and pneumonia vaccination, pulmonary rehabilitation, and use of supplemental oxygen. Early, aggressive interventions are necessary to improve quality of life, decrease hospital admissions, improve morbidity and mortality, and reduce overall healthcare costs.
Blanchard
Amy R
AR
Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center, Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, BBR 5513, 1120 15th St, Augusta, GA 30912, USA. ablancha@mail.mcg.edu
D000208:Acute Disease; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018450:Disease Progression; D006801:Humans; D010102:Oxygen Inhalation Therapy; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D029424:Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D012307:Risk Factors; D016540:Smoking Cessation; D013147:Spirometry
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents