Person with COPD reclaiming physical activity.

COPD Exacerbation: How to Reclaim Your Physical Activity

Rhea Morgan in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Discover the key factors influencing physical activity during COPD flare-ups and practical strategies to help you get back on your feet."

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-term illness that makes it hard to breathe. When COPD symptoms suddenly get worse, it's called an exacerbation. These flare-ups can significantly reduce a person's ability to perform daily activities, leading to a decline in their overall physical health.

Hospitalization due to COPD exacerbations can further decrease mobility. Studies show that older patients spend a large portion of their time in bed during hospital stays, leading to muscle weakness and reduced physical activity levels. Understanding the factors that influence physical activity during these times is crucial for developing effective recovery strategies.

Recent research has shed light on the determinants of physical activity changes during moderate-to-severe COPD exacerbations. By identifying these factors, healthcare professionals and individuals with COPD can work together to create personalized plans that promote mobility and improve quality of life.

Key Factors Influencing Physical Activity During COPD Exacerbations

Person with COPD reclaiming physical activity.

A recent study published in the International Journal of COPD examined nearly 2,500 patients admitted to emergency departments for COPD exacerbations. The researchers collected data on various socioeconomic factors, breathing difficulties, lung function, co-existing health conditions, quality of life, and physical activity levels, both before and during the exacerbation.

The study revealed that several factors were associated with changes in physical activity levels during and after a COPD exacerbation. These factors can be broadly categorized into:

Baseline Physical Activity: Individuals with lower physical activity levels before the exacerbation and during the initial 24 hours of hospitalization experienced greater changes in their activity levels overall.
Exacerbation-Related Factors: Factors such as the need for hospitalization, length of stay, and medications used during admission (e.g., anticholinergics and corticosteroids) significantly impacted physical activity levels.
Patient Characteristics: Older age, reduced quality of life, living alone, and impaired lung function (FEV1%) were also linked to changes in physical activity.
Breathing Difficulty: Experiencing shortness of breath at rest upon arrival to the emergency department was a predictor of change in physical activity among patients who were not hospitalized.

The study also found that certain medications, such as anticholinergics, were associated with increased physical activity, possibly due to improved breathing and reduced hyperinflation. Conversely, the use of systemic corticosteroids was linked to decreased physical activity, potentially due to muscle weakness.

Taking Charge of Your Mobility

Understanding the factors that influence physical activity during COPD exacerbations empowers individuals to take proactive steps toward recovery. By working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can develop personalized strategies to maintain or regain their mobility, improve their overall well-being, and reduce the risk of future exacerbations. These strategies may include pulmonary rehabilitation, medication management, and lifestyle modifications.

About this Article -

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Everything You Need To Know

What is a COPD exacerbation and why is it important to recognize?

A COPD exacerbation is a sudden worsening of COPD symptoms, making it harder to breathe. This can lead to a decline in physical health and the ability to perform daily activities. Recognizing an exacerbation is crucial because it can lead to hospitalization, further reducing mobility and quality of life. Understanding what triggers these flare-ups allows for better management and strategies to maintain physical activity.

What are the main factors that affect how physically active someone can be during a COPD flare-up?

Several key factors can influence physical activity during a COPD exacerbation. These include baseline physical activity levels, exacerbation-related factors like hospitalization and medications, patient characteristics such as older age and impaired lung function (FEV1%), and the severity of breathing difficulty. Each of these aspects plays a significant role in how much a person's activity level changes during and after an exacerbation. Addressing these factors proactively can help improve recovery.

How do different medications used during a COPD flare-up affect physical activity?

Medications prescribed during a COPD exacerbation can have varying effects on physical activity. For instance, anticholinergics have been associated with increased physical activity, potentially because they improve breathing and reduce hyperinflation. On the other hand, systemic corticosteroids have been linked to decreased physical activity, possibly due to muscle weakness. It's important to understand these potential side effects and discuss them with healthcare providers to manage medication effectively.

How does reduced lung function affect physical activity during COPD flare-ups?

Reduced lung function, specifically measured by FEV1% (Forced Expiratory Volume in one second), is linked to changes in physical activity during COPD exacerbations. FEV1% indicates how much air a person can forcefully exhale in one second. Lower FEV1% suggests more severe lung impairment, which can limit physical capabilities. Monitoring and improving lung function through prescribed treatments can positively impact physical activity levels.

What can I do to get back to being more active after a COPD flare-up?

Strategies to improve mobility and reclaim physical activity after a COPD exacerbation include pulmonary rehabilitation, medication management, and lifestyle modifications. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to improve lung function and exercise tolerance. Proper medication management, as prescribed by a doctor can alleviate symptoms. Lifestyle modifications, like regular exercise and a balanced diet, can further enhance overall well-being and physical activity levels. Addressing socioeconomic factors may also play a role, though it was not detailed.