question: I have had asthma all my life and like a dummy I started smoking at the age of 19.  I am now 55.  It has been an on and off battle for many years.  5 years ago, I developed COPD.  Every year the flare ups have gotten worse.  This time around the antibiotics and prednisone seem to be making me worse.  Cramps, no energy, still coughing, and big time shortness of breath when I walk around. Should I go to the hospital?