Taking Time After a Flare-Up

By Theresa Cannizzaro, Respiratory Therapist

2 min read

Wouldn’t it be nice if we were able to bounce back immediately after a COPD flare-up? To be able to have some energy and fall back into our regular routines? If only it were that simple.

Body in overdrive

Unfortunately for the vast majority of us, it couldn’t be further from the truth. It can take a good amount of time to get back to our regular selves no matter how much we want to be there immediately. When we struggle to breathe, our entire body goes into overdrive to help keep us oxygenated. It can feel like we just ran a marathon without ever getting out of bed. Here are some tips to help get through post-flare-up exhaustion.

Rest

You are going to need a good amount of time to allow your body to rest and recharge. Each person will fall into a different timeframe. We won’t all bounce back at the same time. Also, take into consideration the severity of the COPD flare-up. I am a big fan of afternoon naps and taking an extra one here or there when I’m not feeling well. Not only do they give me an energy boost, but they allow my body (specifically my lungs) to continue the healing process.

Allow yourself grace

Those dishes in the sink can wait. The pile of clean laundry in the basket can wait. It is okay to turn down dinner with friends. Try not to beat yourself up when it comes to putting yourself first. Small tasks that are normally no big deal now seem like giant feats to overcome. Take things really slow. Only fold a few pieces of laundry at a time or sweep a small area instead of the entire kitchen.

Ask for help

This one is a tough one for me. I am a very independent person and I sometimes have trouble asking for help. I do not like having to admit that I need help. For a long time, I would just keep going and my recovery times from major flare-ups were pretty long as I wasn’t allowing myself the time I needed to focus on getting my strength back.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help with household chores or errands that need to be run. You might be surprised at how many are willing to help. If you don’t have any family or friends close by, check into if your area has any support groups or resources that can help you out! Many stores are now offering home delivery which can be a huge help for people who are unable to get out of their homes.

Patience

Getting back to your pre COPD flare-up state is going to take time. If you are as impatient as I am, this can be quite a struggle! Be sure to stay hydrated and don’t forget to take your medications as prescribed by your doctor. Also, keep that line of communication open with your medical team just in case. We aren’t Superman after a flare-up but if we take the time to rest and recharge our batteries we’ll be back out there in no time!

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The COPD.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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April.Sluder Moderator
Asking for help is something that many of us feel uncomfortable doing. It's so important to do so, and others really do want to help us. April - <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a> Team
twovillages Member
Hi Janet. It really wasn't scary until I realized a day later how dangerous it was. We had a couple social engagements planned ahead of time, and I knew my spouse wouldn't go if I didn't. I'm the social one in the family. I also didn't want to meet new people, and be carrying an oxygen concentrator, even if it's a small one. I need to factor in how important attending a social event is to me, and be wise enough to stay home if I'm having unusually low drops in my oxygen saturation. Or else, use the concentrator. I need to buy into that idea.
Andie Summer Member
Thank you for this great article. I can see that you were careful not to give any time line for recovery from an exacerbation .. but .. I am recovering from my very first exacerbation, which seemed pretty bad to me, but I did not need to be hospitalised nor need oxygen. It has been two and a half weeks now and I still feel sick and weak, although I am much improved from my worst point a week ago. Does two and a half weeks sound like a long time, or even longer, as I still don't feel anywhere near my "normal" state? 
1. John Bottrell, RRT Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Andie Summer" user-id="9779201"/> You are welcome! I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed Theresa's article. I'm sorry to hear about your first flare-up. From my own experience, I know it’s not easy. It’s good to hear that you’re feeling better now, even though it’s been tough. As Theresa mentioned, recovery can take some time, and it’s normal for it to be a gradual process. However, two and a half weeks does seem like a long time. It may be a good idea to talk to your doctor, who might have ideas to help you feel better sooner. Your doctor can also provide strategies to help prevent future flare-ups. What do you think? Hang in there, and take it one day at a time. John. community moderator.
Andie Summer Member
Thank you John. Your message is very much appreciated, and helpful. I already have an appointment to see my GP and plan to discuss the flare up and other associated issues with Emphysema. And today I am feeling a little bit better, so it is slow progress but it is progress. 
1. John Bottrell, RRT Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Andie Summer" user-id="9779201"/> You are welcome. And glad to hear that you are feeling better -- and being that you posted this yesterday I hope you feel even better today. Please do keep us posted what you learn at your upcoming appointment. Wishing you all the best. John. community moderator.