Exacerbations of COPD (ECOPD) are characterized by
increased dyspnea, which is due in large part to dynamic
pulmonary hyperinflation.1,2 The severe COPD exacerbation
progressively increases both the central respiratory
drive and oxygen cost of breathing while steadily consuming
greater amounts of an often rapidly dwindling ventilatory
reserve.3,4 If left unabated, respiratory muscle fatigue
and ventilatory collapse may ensue, necessitating
mechanical ventilation and a prolonged hospitalization.