This post was written by Jessica Shoemaker, RRT, Pulmonary.
Living with chronic lung conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis or asthma can feel overwhelming. Shortness of breath, fatigue and limited activity can not only impact physical health, but emotional well-being, too.
But there is good news! Pulmonary Rehabilitation (Rehab) can make a real difference.
What is Pulmonary Rehab?
Pulmonary Rehab is a comprehensive, medically supervised program designed to help people with chronic lung disease improve their quality of life. Pulmonary Rehab goes beyond basic breathing exercises.
A Pulmonary Rehab program usually includes:
- Supervised exercise
- Education on lung health and disease management
- Nutritional guidance
- Breathing techniques
- Psychosocial support
The goal of Pulmonary Rehab is to help patients breathe easier, increase strength and endurance, and reduce hospital visits.
The importance of Pulmonary Rehab
- Improves quality of life – Patients report feeling stronger, more independent and more confident after completing a Pulmonary Rehab program.
- Reduction in symptoms – Pulmonary Rehab teaches breathing techniques like pursed-lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing and tripod breathing, which help to reduce shortness of breath and conserve energy.
- Reduces risk of hospitalization – Patients who complete a Pulmonary Rehab program can have fewer flare-ups and are less likely to be hospitalized due to respiratory complications.
- Supports psychosocial health – Living with a chronic lung condition can take a toll on mental health and overall mood. Pulmonary Rehab offers a setting for patients to manage anxiety, depression and the emotional impact of living with a chronic illness.
Personalized education – Patients will learn more in depth about their specific chronic lung condition and how it impacts their daily lives. Patients will also learn how to properly take and use their respiratory medications, manage oxygen therapy if needed and spot early signs of a flare-up.
Who should consider Pulmonary Rehab?
Pulmonary Rehab is not just for those with severe chronic lung disease. It is also recommended for anyone living with:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Asthma
- Post-COVID respiratory complications
- Lung cancer or lung recovery surgery
- Post-lung transplant
If you are frequently short of breath or avoiding activities due to a lung condition, you might be a candidate for Pulmonary Rehab.
Final thoughts
Pulmonary Rehab does not cure chronic lung disease, but it does help patients to live better with their chronic lung disease. With the right skills and education, patients can reclaim their independence and improve their quality of life.
