What does the medical term exacerbation mean?

The medical term exacerbation refers to a sudden worsening or intensification of the symptoms of an existing medical condition. It is commonly used in the context of chronic or recurring illnesses, such as asthma, bronchitis, or inflammatory bowel disease, where periods of symptom improvement can be followed by periods of symptom worsening. An exacerbation can manifest as an increase in the severity or frequency of symptoms, the emergence of new symptoms, or a change in the pattern of symptoms. Exacerbations can vary in duration and severity, and may require increased medical attention or treatment to manage the condition. Understanding the triggers and risk factors for exacerbations can help individuals with chronic conditions better manage their health and reduce the frequency and severity of these episodes.