RFSymptoms: Safety netting advice
AdultsCOPD flare-up
DATE LAST REVIEWED: 05/11/2026
When to seek further review
- Follow the agreed COPD flare-up plan. Get urgent advice if breathlessness, cough or phlegm is getting worse or the prescribed reliever is helping less than usual.
- If antibiotics were prescribed, seek review if symptoms have not started to improve within 2 to 3 days, or within the earlier time agreed with the clinician.
- Arrange follow-up with the GP or respiratory team as advised, even if the flare-up improves. Do not change oxygen settings unless a clinician has told you to.
- Do not wait for the suggested review time if symptoms become worse, new symptoms appear, or you are worried.
- Contact your GP when the surgery is open. If it is closed, you cannot get the help you need, or you are unsure what to do, call NHS 111. You can call even if you are not sure whether the symptoms are serious.
When to get emergency help
(Immediately dial 999 or go to your nearest Emergency Department)
- Severe breathlessness at rest or being too breathless to speak.
- New drowsiness, confusion or blue or grey lips.
- Chest pain, collapse or rapid deterioration.
- Severe difficulty breathing, such as gasping or being unable to speak normally.
- New confusion or not making sense when speaking.
- Being very difficult to wake.
- Collapse or loss of consciousness.
- Blue, grey, unusually pale or blotchy skin or lips, especially when feeling very unwell.
How to spot sepsis
Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to an infection. It can get worse quickly. If someone is seriously unwell and may have sepsis, call 999 or go to your nearest Emergency Department. Do not wait for every sign, a high temperature or a rash.
An unwell child under 5 who has not had a pee or wet nappy for 12 hours needs emergency assessment. If you are unsure and there are no emergency signs, call NHS 111 for advice.
