Very Frightening indeed, I have experienced that too many times.
You could ask your doctor for a prescription for physical therapy which is a wonderful class that teaches you about COPD and proper exercise. I highly recommend it.

There are some very good You tube videos on COPD that can be very beneficial to anyone that wishes to search for them.
How to take medication, exercise, breathing techniques, clearing your lungs, using a "flutter valve" to help phlegm removal, chest compressions vest for phlegm removal.
My doctor explained all of this to me, and I thought I understood what he told me. What You Tube did for me was put verbal instructions into practice.
BIG CAUTION RIGHT HERE.
Lots of bad information and downright lies on social media.
Use YOUR brain when you read or watch anything.

Water is your best friend.
Stay hydrated to thin mucus so you can cough it up.
Mucinex can be beneficial also.

I’m so sorry. I had to stop being around my grandson when ill. I kept ending up in the hospital and permanently scaring my lungs further , and worsening breathing. Hugs🦋💖

Thank you! I’ve started the process to get into physical therapy. I’m hoping to get started soon. I’ll definitely look into your other suggestions

Thank you.