What is pulmonary rehabilitation?
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a medically supervised program specifically designed for individuals with chronic lung diseases. It's more than just a series of exercises; it's a holistic approach that combines exercise training, education, and support to help you breathe easier and live a more active and fulfilling life. [2][3] Our team of experts at BLWC will work with you to create a personalized plan that meets your specific needs and goals.
When should you consider pulmonary rehabilitation?
Pulmonary rehabilitation can be beneficial for individuals with a variety of chronic lung conditions. If you experience persistent shortness of breath that limits your daily activities, despite using medication, our program may be right for you. [1][4] We commonly help patients with:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Asthma
- Interstitial Lung Disease
- Pulmonary Fibrosis
- Pulmonary Hypertension
- Recovery from lung surgery or transplant
- Post-Covid Lung Damage
- Post-Tuberculosis Lung Disease
- Bronchiectasis
- COPD exacerbation post hospitalization
What to expect in our pulmonary rehabilitation program
Our program at BLWC is tailored to your individual needs and consists of several key components[1][2]:
Personalized Assessment: We begin with a thorough evaluation of your health, including your medical history, exercise capacity, and oxygen needs, to design a safe and effective plan for you.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Exercises: The cornerstone of our program is supervised exercise training. Our specialists will guide you through a variety of exercises, including aerobic activities like walking and cycling, as well as strength and flexibility training to improve your muscle strength and endurance.
Breathing Techniques: You will learn specialized pulmonary rehabilitation techniques like pursed-lip and diaphragmatic breathing to help control your shortness of breath, especially during physical activity.
Education and Self-Management: We will empower you with the knowledge to better understand and manage your lung condition. This includes information about your medications, oxygen therapy, and how to prevent and manage flare-ups.
Nutritional Counseling: Our dietitians will provide guidance on a healthy diet to help you manage your condition and maintain a healthy weight.
Follow up and Maintenance: We will ensure robust follow up, counselling and continuous support for enrolled patients.
Planning your sessions
Our pulmonary rehabilitation programs typically involve three sessions per week, with each session lasting one to two hours. The total duration of the program is eight weeks followed by a maintenance program. We offer both in-center and virtual programs to provide flexibility and convenience.
Our Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program is designed as per national and international guidelines.
Benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation
Participating in our pulmonary rehabilitation program can lead to significant improvements in your health and well-being. The benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation include[1][2]:
- Reduced symptoms, such as shortness of breath and fatigue
- Increased ability to perform daily activities and exercise
- Fewer hospital admissions
- Enhanced mental health, with reduced feelings of anxiety and depression
- Greater strength and endurance
- Improved quality of life
How effective is pulmonary rehabilitation?
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a highly effective and evidence-based treatment. Studies show that people who complete a program have increased exercise capacity, reduced shortness of breath, and a better health-related quality of life compared to those who do not. [2][3]
Recovery and Long-Term Outcome
The positive effects of pulmonary rehabilitation can be long-lasting, but maintaining the benefits requires a commitment to your health. To ensure the best long-term outcomes, it is crucial to continue with the exercises, breathing strategies, and other program fundamentals where we will continue to support you through our Maintenance Program.[1][4]
To get the most out of your rehabilitation, we encourage you to be an active participant in your own recovery. By attending all your sessions, openly communicating with your therapists, and dedicating yourself to your home maintenance plan, you can sustain your progress and continue to lead a more active and fulfilling life. [2]
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References
- https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/lung-and-airway-disorders/rehabilitation-for-lung-and-airway-disorders/pulmonary-rehabilitation
- https://pulmonary.ucsf.edu/care/rehabilitation
- https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2010/0915/p655.html
- https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/pulmonary-rehabilitation
