Understanding fear and anxiety in patients at the time of an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a qualitative study

Panic and fear are important emotions prior to admission. Many patients recognised the link between panic-fear and a worsening of symptoms, and some were able to use self-management techniques to reduce their panic-fear. Some relatives were seen as helping and others exacerbating the symptoms of panic-fear. The emergency services were seen as positive: providing reassurance and a sense of safety. How best to help patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease manage panic and fear remains a challenge.