What is a medical meaning sudden worsening of symptoms?

The medical term for a sudden worsening of symptoms is "acute exacerbation." This refers to a rapid and significant increase in the severity or intensity of existing symptoms or the sudden onset of new symptoms in an individual with an underlying medical condition. Acute exacerbations can occur in various medical conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and chronic kidney disease. They may be triggered by various factors, such as infections, environmental allergens, stress, non-adherence to treatment, or changes in the underlying disease process. Acute exacerbations can range in severity and may require prompt medical attention, hospitalization, or adjustments in treatment plans to manage the worsening symptoms effectively.