EDITOR’S NOTE: Physicians, providers and administrative staff who practice at Maui Health hospitals and clinics answer questions from the public in Healthwise Maui, which appears on Thursdays. Maui Health operates Maui Memorial Medical Center, Maui Memorial Medical Center Outpatient Clinic, Kula Hospital & Clinic and Lana’i Community Hospital and accepts all patients. To submit a question, go to the website at mauihealth.org/healthwise.

Q: How can I reduce my risk of COPD flare-ups?

Dr. June Kim, Pulmonology, Pacific Permanente Group: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects your breathing and quality of life. When your symptoms suddenly get worse, it’s called a COPD flare-up or exacerbation. This can interfere with your ability to participate in your normal activities.

Warning signs of a COPD flare-up include worsening symptoms such as increased coughing, more frequent wheezing, greater difficulty breathing, and noticeable changes in the amount or color of mucus. You may also have trouble sleeping or feel more tired than usual.

If you notice a flare-up starting, stay calm. You can often manage a flare-up by following your treatment plan. Take any medications or oxygen as directed, and use techniques such as pursed-lip breathing to help relieve shortness of breath. Get plenty of rest while dealing with and recovering from a flare-up.

You can help reduce the frequency of flare-ups by learning to identify and avoid your triggers. Common triggers include smoke, air pollution, weather changes, respiratory infections, and artificial scents such as perfumes and cleaning products. Avoid secondhand smoke, use unscented detergents, and remove other potential triggers from your home.

Protect yourself from illness by washing your hands, avoiding people who show signs of illness, and staying up to date with vaccinations for the flu, COVID-19, and RSV. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health. Talk to your doctor about effective smoking cessation options.

It’s highly recommended that patients keep a pulse oximeter at home, especially during flare-ups. These devices, which typically cost around $20, help monitor your oxygen levels and provide crucial information to guide your actions if your levels drop.

If your symptoms worsen or you experience any concerning changes, contact your doctor right away. Seek immediate medical care for severe symptoms such as coughing up dark mucus, chest pain, fever, confusion, difficulty staying awake, trouble speaking, or if you notice blue lips or fingertips.

Maui Health provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for diagnosing, treating, and managing COPD. To schedule an appointment with a pulmonologist, contact the Maui Memorial Medical Center Outpatient Clinic at 808-442-5700.

Q: I’m in my 80s. How can I avoid falling?

Cameron Rogers, Trauma Injury Prevention & Outreach Coordinator, Maui Health: Falls are the number one cause of injury for people over the age of 65. Along with injuries like bruises, broken bones, and concussions, they can cause hip fractures, a serious injury that can lead to long-term disability or loss of independence.

But many falls are preventable, and there are things you can do to reduce your risk.

Start by asking your doctor to evaluate your risk from falls and fractures. Have them review your medications and flag any drugs that might make you dizzy or affect your balance. If you’re at risk for osteoporosis, consider taking a vitamin D supplement to strengthen your bones, or get treatment if needed.

Get your vision tested and update your eyeglasses with your current prescription. If you have bifocals, consider getting separate glasses for reading and distance, as progressive lenses may affect your depth perception.

Hit the gym or work with a physical therapist to strengthen the muscles in your lower body. Try a workout like yoga or tai chi to improve your balance.

You can also reduce your risk of falls by making changes to your home. Start by doing a walk-through of your house and removing or storing items you could trip over. Secure loose wires and remove throw rugs that can be a tripping hazard. Add grab bars in the bathroom, and install railings along stairs.

Finally, make sure your home has adequate lighting. Add lamps or use brighter light bulbs if necessary, and install night-lights in hallways and bathrooms to reduce risk of stumbling at night.

A Matter of Balance is a free fall-prevention class designed to help you stay active, independent, and reduce fall risks. Learn more about upcoming classes at mauihealth.org/injuryprevention or call (808) 264-1082.