Exacerbations Of Respiratory Failure: Causes And Management

Exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) significantly affect patients' quality of life and are a leading cause of hospital admissions, readmissions, mortality, and healthcare costs. These exacerbations, often triggered by respiratory viruses and secondary bacterial infections, manifest as shortness of breath, sputum purulence, and cough. Early detection is crucial to prevent prolonged events and hospitalizations. Treatment options are limited, primarily involving oral corticosteroids, antibiotics, and mucolytics, with noninvasive ventilation or high-flow oxygen for respiratory failure. Prevention strategies include vaccinations, bronchodilators, mucolytics, anti-inflammatory agents, and new biologic therapies targeting Type 2 inflammation.