Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), your usual shortness of breath could suddenly get worse. You may start coughing more and have more mucus. This flare-up is called a COPD exacerbation (say "ig-ZAS-ur-BAY-shun"). A lung infection or air pollution could set off an exacerbation. Sometimes it can happen after being around chemicals. Work with your doctor to make a plan for dealing with an exacerbation. You can better manage it if you plan ahead. A COPD action plan is a written plan that tells you how to treat your COPD and what to do when your symptoms get worse. It helps you make quick decisions in an emergency. Your action plan has three zones based on your symptoms. For each zone, ask your doctor what type—and what amount—of medicine you should take for your symptoms. Your symptoms What to do Your symptoms What to do Your symptoms What to do Be sure your action plan includes this information. Name of my doctor or clinic: Phone number of my doctor or clinic: Who to call in an emergency: Emergency contact phone number: Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if: Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if: Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if: Current as of: August 6, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: August 6, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
COPD Action Plan
Overview
How do you use a COPD action plan?
Green Zone: Feeling well
Yellow Zone: Flare-up
Red Zone: Get emergency care right away
Contact information
When should you call for help?
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: August 6, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardCOPD Action Plan
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.