Tell us about your symptoms and treatment experience. Take our survey here.

caret icon Back to all discussions

recovering after a flareup

How long does it take to feel normal again after a flareup? Finished 10 days of antibiotics 2 weeks ago but still coughing up junk and having panic attacks for first time. I have been on o2 for a year

  1. Hi. Great question. And I see you received a response already from @CopdGirl. I have to say that I agree with what she says. Each person with COPD may have a different timetable for how long it takes to recover from a flare-up. If a person is concerned that symptoms are not improving, this is a sign that a discussion with your physician (or an ER or clinic doctor) is warranted. That said, are you experiencing a flare-up at the moment? Just curious. John. copd.net community moderator.

    1. ,
      I totally agree with John Bottrell and CopdGirl on this one. I have only had a couple of flareups in the past year and each one was different. One took about two weeks to recover from and the other took only a couple days to recover from. As far as "coughing up junk" goes, I cough up stuff (mucus) daily. It is not a result of a flareup, it is just normal for COPD. Please contact your medical team about your panic attacks. They do not help your situation in the least bit. Do your best to stay positive and not worry. I know it is easier said than done but save that energy for positive actions and results. Your medical team should be able to help with that. Take care and God Bless.

      1. NO ONE can tell you how long your recovery will take. Your medical history and disease progression all play a role in your body’s ability to recover. One factor that can significantly affect your recovery is the effort YOU put forth. If you haven’t already had this conversation with your pulmonologist, ask about exercise, pulmonary rehab and at home respiratory therapy. I know with my own experience that 90% of the improvements in my respiratory health came from my own efforts.

        1. Hi katw - it's gratifying to see that both our community members and colleagues have all jumped in here with their own suggestions. They've also shared, quite candidly, their own personal anecdotal experiences. I concur with all that has been said.
          I do hope you have a chance to review everyone's comments.
          If there is anything we can assist you with, please let me or any other moderator / team member know. I trust you can feel the support that is being sent your way from COPD.net.
          You are always welcome here!
          All the best,
          Leon (site moderator COPD.net)

          Please read our rules before posting.