Last Updated on December 10, 2024 by Analgesia team
IECOPD Medical Abbreviation
IE-COPD is a medical abbreviation for infrequent exacerbator chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. COPD is a chronic respiratory disease.
An exacerbation is an event where symptoms like cough, sputum, and dyspnea worsen over a short period of time.
Treatment for an IECOPD exacerbation:
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- Bronchodilators: Increase the frequency or dose of short-acting bronchodilators. You can also consider using a nebulizer.
- Antibiotics: Consider prescribing antibiotics if the exacerbation is associated with increased sputum volume or purulence, or increased breathlessness. Some first-choice oral antibiotics include amoxicillin, doxycycline, or clarithromycin.
- Bronchodilators: Increase the frequency or dose of short-acting bronchodilators. You can also consider using a nebulizer.
- Prednisolone: Consider a 5-day course of oral prednisolone.
You should consider emergency admission if the patient has:
- Severe breathlessness
- Inability to cope at home
- Poor or deteriorating general condition
- Acute confusion or impaired consciousness
- Cyanosis or reduced oxygen saturation
- Worsening peripheral oedema
- A new arrhythmia
Many exacerbations are caused by respiratory tract infections, but some may be caused by non-infective triggers like environmental pollution.