Overview
Incidence
Risk Factors
Symptoms
trigger factors
Evaluation
Treatment
drugs
bronchodilators
questions for doctor
specialist
vaccines
Home Care
inhaler use
taking control
warning signs
wheezing attacks
Prevention
stop smoking
Outlook
Complications
Underlying Cause
smoking
Types
Anatomy
COPD Wheezing Attacks
Home care for wheezing due to COPD includes:
- Avoid exposure to smoke.
- Avoid cough medicine.
- Avoid sedative medications.
- Avoid substances that trigger wheezing.
- Drink plenty of liquids to remain hydrated.
- Place a vaporizer or nebulizer in the bedroom at night.
- Learn to use prescribed inhalers correctly.

- Use short-acting inhalers every 20 minutes, or as directed by your doctor.
- Long-acting medications must be used regularly.
- Stay calm during a wheezing attack.
Continue to COPD Prevention
Last Updated: Dec 8, 2010 References
Authors: Stephen J. Schueler, MD; John H. Beckett, MD; D. Scott Gettings, MD
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PubMed COPD References
- Celli BR, Thomas NE, Anderson JA, Ferguson GT, Jenkins CR, Jones PW, Vestbo J, Knobil K, Yates JC, Calverley PM. Effect of pharmacotherapy on rate of decline of lung function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: results from the TORCH study. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2008 Aug 15;178(4):332-8. Epub 2008 May 29. [18511702]
- Doherty DE, Briggs DD Jr. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: epidemiology, pathogenesis, disease course, and prognosis. Clin Cornerstone. 2004;Suppl 2:S5-16. [15500179]
- Ebell MH. Systemic corticosteroids for acute exacerbations of COPD. Am Fam Physician. 2005 Aug 1;72(3):437-8. [16100857]
- Kerstjens H, Postma D, Ten Hacken N. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Clin Evid. 2004 Jun;(11):2003-30. [15652094]
- Weder MM, Donohue JF. Role of bronchodilators in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Semin Respir Crit Care Med. 2005 Apr;26(2):221-34. [16088439]