As a result of this effort, the right ventricle becomes enlarged, the walls of the heart thicken, and the chamber eventually loses its ability to contract efficiently. Acute Exacerbations Acute exacerbations of COPD are characterized by an abrupt increase of symptoms. Cough and sputum production increases. Wheezing is often increased or noted for the first time. Exacerbations are caused by bronchial infections in most instances.
Fever is uncommon.
The number of exacerbations per year increases as the diseases progresses. Often the patient needs mechanical support until the acute decline has resolved. Unfortunately, some patients don't recover sufficiently from the acute episode to enable them to breathe on their own. There is no way of knowing who will improve and who will not after such an episode. Generally, those who have worse lung function and functional status are less likely to regain independent breathing.