Priority 11 from the COPD Exacerbation PSP

UNCERTAINTY: What is the best way to treat breathlessness during a COPD exacerbation? (JLA PSP Priority 11)
Overall ranking 11
JLA question ID 0104/11
Explanatory note Breathlessness is a common symptom for people having a COPD exacerbation. Current treatments don't work perfectly, and take time to be effective. This question aims to find new ways to treat breathlessness during an exacerbation. These treatments would not necessarily be medicines.
Evidence

This question is an area of uncertainty.

Health Research Classification System category Respiratory
Extra information provided by this PSP
Original uncertainty examples

After antibiotics the main symptoms go but I am left breathless for weeks. What should I do. ~ How best to breath when having an attack ~ The exercises i see on U/Tube called "Buteyko breathing exercises “seem to help a lot of people. Is it really beneficial to do them.???? ~ Do singing for lung health breathing techniques reduce the severity of breathlessness during exacerbation ~ Given that a large part of exacerbation is driven by anxiety and disordered breathing pattern, Would a short admission to a local community 'Hospital' (comfortable chair, hot tea and nursing care) be an effective second line option?

Submitted by Patient, Healthcare professional
PSP information
PSP unique ID 0104
PSP name COPD Exacerbation PSP
Total number of uncertainties identified by this PSP. 51 (To see a full list of all uncertainties identified, please see the detailed spreadsheet held on the JLA website)
Date of priority setting workshop 1 April 2021