Signs of infection or exacerbation and what to do

4) Amber – what to do

To see an enlarged version of the amber traffic light page select the image above.

To see an enlarged version of the amber traffic light page select the image above.

These changes may mean that you are developing an infection or exacerbation.

  • You should increase use of your short acting inhaler, usually a blue inhaler.
  • Rest while you can.
  • Use your breathing techniques.
  • Use your chest clearance exercises.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, don’t get dehydrated.
  • Eat small amounts often.
  • Keep monitoring how you feel in case you are having a flare up.

If you have an agreed action plan you will know what to look out for as the trigger for starting a course of antibiotics and / or prednisolone. If you do not have this arrangement it would be worth speaking to your GP/Practice nurse – they will want to teach you to monitor your symptoms and will also give you a contact telephone number so that you can talk things over. Later on they will want to check that you are able to start these treatments at the right time. It is only safe for you to continue if your health team is confident you are using these treatments safely.

Click on the amber traffic light for more information.